Making the Switch
How long will you have to wear a temporary retainer? It takes about a week for the final removable retainer to be ready for you to use in many cases. Once your final retainer is ready, it's important to make the switch to it right away. Be sure to keep it clean by brushing it with soft bristles and non-abrasive toothpaste to fight germs and help prevent bad breath.
You'll want to change to your final retainer as soon as it's available from your dentist or orthodontist because of something called bite settling. A study published in the Journal of Natural Science, Biology and Medicine notes that final retainers allow the teeth to settle into place vertically after braces. A temporary device doesn't allow for this settling and can actually negatively affect your results if you use it for too long.
If you have any questions about your retainer, from how long you'll need to wear the temporary one to how often you need to wear your final one, you can always ask your orthodontist. They can provide more detailed instructions that are specific to your mouth and particular case. Ensuring you understand your new retainer's role and how to care for it properly will help you maintain your beautiful smile.