How Long Do Retainers Last?

Retainers play a big role in protecting the smile you worked so hard to achieve. When you wear one following braces or clear aligner treatment, it keeps your teeth from shifting back. However, knowing how long that retainer will last is key to keeping your results intact.

A retainer’s lifespan depends on a few key factors, including the type of retainer, how well it’s cared for, and general wear-and-tear from everyday use.

• Material quality: Clear plastic breaks down faster than metal and acrylic
• Daily wear habits: Eating or drinking with retainers in, or improper cleaning
• Storage: Retainers left out (or chewed on by pets) are more likely to be damaged
• Oral hygiene: Buildup can degrade materials and shorten lifespan

Let’s take a look at the average longevity of each type of retainer offered here at Olive Orthodontics:

Hawley retainers are removable, and they’re made of a wire and an acrylic base.

• Average lifespan: 5 to 10 years
• Durability: Very sturdy with proper care
• Best for: Patients who want a long-term retainer and don’t mind a visible wire

Pro tip: Avoid bending the wire and store your retainer in its case when not in use.

Essix retainers are made of clear plastic and are another removable option.

• Average lifespan: 6 months to 3 years
• Durability: Less durable; more prone to cracking or warping
• Best for: Patients who prefer a more discreet option

Pro tip: Keep these retainers away from hot water and never leave them in a hot car, since heat can warp them.

Vivera retainers are Invisalign’s retainer brand and are made of a proprietary thermoplastic material.

• Average lifespan: Each set can last 1–2 years, with multiple sets provided
• Durability: Designed to be longer-lasting than standard clear retainers
• Best for: Patients looking for a high-quality, long-term clear option

Pro tip: These retainers are custom-made with advanced technology and come in sets, so you always have a backup on hand.

Even with perfect care, no retainer lasts forever. Here’s when to consider a replacement:

• Cracks or warping (especially common in clear retainers)
• Loose fit or shifting teeth
• Discoloration or odor that doesn’t go away with cleaning
• It no longer fits comfortably or at all

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer as to how often you should replace a retainer, but these are some general guidelines:

• Essix/Vivera Retainers: Every 1–2 years, or sooner if damaged
• Hawley Retainers: Every 5–10 years, or as needed

When in doubt: Bring it in! At Olive Orthodontics, we’re always happy to check your fit and provide some helpful guidance.

Your retainer is essential to maintaining your smile, but it isn’t designed to last forever. Regular check-ins, good hygiene, and timely replacements help ensure your teeth stay beautifully aligned for years to come.

At Olive Orthodontics, we offer a full range of custom retainer options, from traditional to modern, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need a replacement retainer, have concerns about shifting teeth, or just want to ensure your current one still fits like it should, we’re here to help.

Retainers are used after braces or clear aligner treatment. To get started with treatment, schedule your complimentary consultation today!