Wearing a Retainer After 20 Years: Is It Possible?

Wearing a retainer is crucial after completing orthodontic treatment to maintain the alignment of your teeth. But what happens when you haven't worn your retainer in years—perhaps 20 years? Is it still possible to start wearing it again and regain some of the benefits? In this article, we’ll explore whether you can return to using your retainer after such a long break, and what you can do to keep your smile intact.

1. Can You Wear an Old Retainer After 20 Years?

If it's been decades since you last wore your retainer, your first thought might be to simply put it back on and hope for the best. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as dusting it off and slipping it back into place.

Assessing Fit and Condition

  • Retainer Fit: Chances are, your teeth have shifted over the years, and the old retainer might no longer fit comfortably or correctly. Forcing it on can be painful and potentially harmful to your teeth.
  • Wear and Tear: Over time, plastic retainers can degrade, becoming brittle and more prone to cracking. Even metal parts can become damaged or bent.

The Risks of Forcing an Old Retainer

If you try to wear a retainer that no longer fits, you run the risk of damaging your teeth or gums. A poorly fitting retainer may cause irritation, gum recession, or even shift your teeth in undesired ways. It’s essential to consult your orthodontist before attempting to reuse an old retainer.

2. What Happens to Your Teeth Over Time?

Without the regular use of a retainer, teeth have a tendency to shift. While this movement might not be as severe as it was before orthodontic treatment, subtle changes can occur due to the natural pressure exerted by your lips, tongue, and jaw.

Natural Shifting

Teeth shift naturally throughout life, particularly the lower front teeth, which are most prone to crowding as you age. Factors like tooth loss, grinding, and gum disease can also contribute to changes in tooth alignment over time.

Relapse After Treatment

Relapse, where teeth move back toward their original, pre-treatment positions, can happen to varying degrees. If it’s been 20 years since you last wore your retainer, some noticeable shifting may have occurred. This is why continued retainer use is recommended by orthodontists, sometimes even for life.

3. What Are Your Options After a Long Break?

If it’s been a long time since you wore your retainer, your best option is to consult with an orthodontist. They will assess your current alignment and recommend appropriate solutions.

Getting a New Retainer

If the shifting isn’t too severe, you might only need a new retainer to maintain your current alignment. Your orthodontist can create a new custom retainer that fits your teeth as they are now.

Orthodontic Treatment Re-Evaluation

If your teeth have shifted significantly, a new round of orthodontic treatment might be necessary. This could involve clear aligners like Invisalign or traditional braces, depending on the extent of the movement. After treatment, you’ll be prescribed a new retainer to maintain your smile.

Shocking Risks of a Dirty Retainers: Could Your Neglect Lead to Serious Health Issues?

Skipping regular retainer cleaning can turn it into a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, leading to infections, Bad breath, and even damage to your teeth and gums. This isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about protecting your health. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

4. Cleaning Methods for Retainers

Whether you’re wearing your old retainer or a new one, keeping it clean is critical to avoid plaque buildup and bad odors. Various cleaning methods can be used, but each comes with its drawbacks.

Brushing Your Retainer

  • Advantages: Using a soft toothbrush and mild soap can remove plaque buildup.
  • Disadvantages: Over time, brushing can scratch the surface of plastic retainers, making them more prone to bacterial growth and wear.

Soaking in Mouthwash

  • Advantages: Soaking your retainer in a non-alcoholic mouthwash can help kill bacteria and leave it smelling fresh.
  • Disadvantages: Mouthwash, especially if alcohol-based, can dry out the retainer and cause it to become brittle over time.

DIY Vinegar Solution

  • Advantages: A diluted vinegar solution can dissolve mineral deposits and kill bacteria.
  • Disadvantages: Vinegar can leave an unpleasant aftertaste and odor if not thoroughly rinsed.

5. Using Retainer Cleaning Tablets

Retainer cleaning tablets are a popular solution for keeping retainers clear and fresh. These tablets are convenient and effective for removing odors, discoloration, and plaque buildup. Simply drop a tablet in water, let your retainer soak, and it will emerge clean and odor-free.

Benefits of Cleaning Tablets

  • Odor-Free: Cleaning tablets do an excellent job of eliminating bad smells, leaving your retainer fresh.
  • Clear Retainers: They help retainers maintain their original transparency, which is important for clear plastic retainers.

While cleaning tablets are highly effective, they should not be used as a substitute for regular brushing and rinsing. The combination of brushing and using cleaning tablets ensures your retainer stays in the best possible condition.

6. Preventing Future Shifting

If you've decided to get a new retainer or undergo orthodontic treatment again, it's crucial to stay on top of wearing your retainer to prevent future shifting. Your orthodontist will likely recommend a schedule for wearing the retainer consistently.

Retainer Use Guidelines

  • Full-Time Wear: After treatment, you might need to wear your retainer full-time for the first few months.
  • Nightly Wear: Over time, you may reduce wear to just nighttime, but this habit is key to preventing long-term shifting.

Conclusion: Can You Wear a Retainer After 20 Years?

While it’s not ideal to try and force on a retainer that hasn’t been used in two decades, it is possible to revisit your orthodontic care and regain control of your smile. Whether you need a new retainer or more orthodontic work, keeping your teeth aligned is achievable with the right approach. Regular cleaning using effective methods, such as brushing and retainer cleaning tablets, will help maintain your retainer’s condition and your dental health.

Disclaimer:

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The author and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the information provided in this article.

Back to blog