In this article
Retainers are usually thought of as the thing you get after braces or aligners, but that's not the only situation where one makes sense. Some people never had orthodontic treatment at all and are still interested in a retainer, and it's worth understanding what it can and can't do in that context.
Retainers Aren't Only a Post-Treatment Product
A retainer's core function is to hold teeth in their current position and slow the kind of gradual movement that happens to almost everyone over time, treated or not. Natural forward drift, minor crowding that develops with age, and general shifts in tooth position aren't exclusive to people who've had orthodontic work. Someone with naturally straight or acceptably aligned teeth can use a retainer purely to help maintain that position for longer.
Who This Applies To
This is most relevant for people who are generally happy with their current alignment and want to reduce the rate of natural age-related shifting, or people who've noticed early, very minor changes and want to help stabilise their current position before it progresses further. It's a maintenance tool, not a treatment for existing misalignment.
What It Does and Doesn't Do
A retainer holds teeth in their current position. It does not move teeth into a new, straighter position, so if you have noticeable crowding, gaps, or bite issues you'd like corrected, that requires clear aligners or another orthodontic treatment first, with a retainer used afterward to maintain the result. Using a retainer on its own for teeth that are already misaligned won't straighten them.
Getting One Made Without Prior Treatment
You don't need a history of orthodontic treatment to get a custom retainer made. The process is the same as for anyone else, an impression or scan of your current teeth is taken, and a retainer is moulded to hold them in that exact position.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a retainer if my teeth have never been treated?
Yes, a retainer can be made for anyone, regardless of orthodontic history, and simply holds your current tooth position.
Will a retainer straighten teeth that are already a bit crowded?
No, a retainer holds position rather than moving teeth. If you want to correct existing crowding, that requires aligner or orthodontic treatment.
Is it worth getting a retainer just for maintenance if my teeth look fine now?
This is a personal choice. Some people prefer to be proactive about slowing natural age-related shifting, while others are comfortable with gradual, minor changes over time.
How often would I need to wear a maintenance retainer?
This depends on your individual situation and goals, and is worth discussing with a dental professional to determine an appropriate wear schedule for your case.
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