How long does one need retainers?
The recent studies in the orthodontic literature suggest that it is better to keep retainers for a long time. It is not possible to predict whose teeth are likely to move after the retainers are discontinued. The orthodontist would decide about the duration of the retainers for an individual based on her/his condition of teeth and jaw structures. Usually the retainers are worn at least for six months and are gradually weaned off. In some cases longer retention may be necessary for the long term stability of the results.
