Removable Braces After Fixed Braces: Why Do You Need to Wear Them?

You have your fixed braces in place—what’s next? Find out why it’s important to wear removable retainers and how to keep your teeth straight for life.

Removable Braces After Fixed Braces: Why Do You Need Them and What Can You Expect?

You’ve finished your fixed braces, your teeth look great, your bite is perfect—and you might think you’re done. But now comes the crucial part of the entire orthodontic treatment, one that would be a big mistake to underestimate: retention. It is during this phase that removable braces, technically known as retention appliances, come into play. Why? And what can you expect? Find out in our article.

Why are removable braces a necessity after fixed braces?

The reason is that teeth tend to shift back to their original position. Yes, even though you’ve spent the last X years with fixed braces in your mouth, your teeth can still shift back to the way they were before you got braces.

This is due to what is known as “tissue memory” and changes in the surrounding structures that occurred during orthodontic treatment. If you were to end treatment by removing your fixed braces without subsequent retention, you could lose all the progress you’ve made— within just a few months. And this is precisely where removable braces, or retention appliances, play a key role.

Recommended reading: Everything you need to know about tooth retention

What are retention splints and how do they work?

Retainers are clear plastic devices custom-made for each patient. They are similar to Invisalign clear aligners, but they are not designed to move the teeth—their sole purpose is to maintain the results. 

Tip: See how braces can transform your smile.

They work by keeping the teeth in the correct position until they “settle” firmly into their new position—that is, until the bone tissue has remodeled and the bite has stabilized.

How long do you have to wear removable braces?

There is no single rule, only general recommendations.

  • First 3–6 months: It is often recommended to wear the splints all day long, except when eating and brushing your teeth.
  • The coming months and years: This is followed by nighttime wear, i.e., about 8 hours a day.
  • Long-term: For some patients, it is recommended to wear splints several nights a week even after several years, especially if there is a risk of relapse (recurrence of the defect).

However, every patient has a personalized treatment plan. That is why it is essential to follow your orthodontist’s instructions.

Removable Braces After Fixed Braces: Why Do You Need Them and What Can You Expect?

You’ve finished your fixed braces, your teeth look great, your bite is perfect—and you might think you’re done. But now comes the crucial part of the entire orthodontic treatment, one that would be a big mistake to underestimate: retention. It is during this phase that removable braces, technically known as retention appliances, come into play. Why? And what can you expect? Find out in our article.

Why are removable braces a necessity after fixed braces?

The reason is that teeth tend to shift back to their original position. Yes, even though you’ve spent the last X years with fixed braces in your mouth, your teeth can still shift back to the way they were before you got braces.

This is due to what is known as “tissue memory” and changes in the surrounding structures that occurred during orthodontic treatment. If you were to end treatment by removing your fixed braces without subsequent retention, you could lose all the progress you’ve made— within just a few months. And this is precisely where removable braces, or retention appliances, play a key role.

Recommended reading: Everything you need to know about tooth retention

What are retention splints and how do they work?

Retainers are clear plastic devices custom-made for each patient. They are similar to Invisalign clear aligners, but they are not designed to move the teeth—their sole purpose is to maintain the results. 

Tip: See how braces can transform your smile.

They work by keeping the teeth in the correct position until they “settle” firmly into their new position—that is, until the bone tissue has remodeled and the bite has stabilized.

How long do you have to wear removable braces?

There is no single rule, only general recommendations.

  • First 3–6 months: It is often recommended to wear the splints all day long, except when eating and brushing your teeth.
  • The coming months and years: This is followed by nighttime wear, i.e., about 8 hours a day.
  • Long-term: For some patients, it is recommended to wear splints several nights a week even after several years, especially if there is a risk of relapse (recurrence of the defect).

However, every patient has a personalized treatment plan. That is why it is essential to follow your orthodontist’s instructions.

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Caring for Removable Retainers

To ensure that your retainers last a long time and remain hygienic, you need to take good care of them.

How do you do that?

  • Rinse the braces with lukewarm water every time you take them out.
  • Clean them once a day with a soft brush and mild soap (not toothpaste, as it is too abrasive).
  • Do not leave them in direct sunlight or in hot water—they could warp.
  • Always store them in a sturdy case.

What happens if you don't wear your removable braces?

Simply put: your teeth will start to shift. They may begin to crowd again, create gaps between them, or change your bite. The longer you wait, the greater the risk that everything will need to be corrected again. And do you really want to go through the entire orthodontic treatment all over again?

4 Reasons to Choose Invisible Retention Splints

  1. They are not visible when worn
  2. They are comfortable and don't restrict speech
  3. They are easy to remove and clean
  4. They are custom-made based on a 3D scan of your smile

How much do removable braces cost?

The cost of retainers starts at around 1,000 CZK, but is usually included in the total cost of orthodontic treatment. Here at Svět rovnátek, we agree on the final price in advance, so there are no surprises. You can read more in our article on the cost of braces.

Have you finished wearing your fixed braces? Then it's time to schedule a follow-up appointment

Regular checkups and ensuring that retainers are worn properly are important for long-term results. The orthodontist will assess the stability of your teeth and, if necessary, recommend adjustments to your retention regimen.

Retention is the final and crucial step on the path to a perfect smile. Don’t underestimate it. Schedule a free consultation with us—we’ll assess the condition of your teeth after your fixed braces are removed, explain how to wear your removable retainers properly, and help keep your smile beautifully straight.

You often ask

How long will I need to wear removable braces after my fixed braces are removed?

Usually several months to a few years. For the first few months, you wear them day and night; after that, usually only while sleeping.

What if I forget to wear my removable braces?

Teeth may shift back to their original position. The longer the break, the greater the risk of relapse.

Are removable braces visible?

Modern retention splints are made of clear plastic and are virtually invisible.

Does wearing retainers hurt?

Most patients describe them as comfortable. Sometimes a slight pressure may be felt, which is a sign that the splints are working.

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