The short answer: absolutely. Without a retainer, teeth can shift back within weeks of completing treatment.
Orthodontic treatment moves teeth through bone by applying controlled pressure over time. When that pressure is removed — when the braces come off — the bone around each tooth is still in the process of fully solidifying in its new position. Without a retainer holding teeth in place during this consolidation phase, they will drift back toward where they started. This is called relapse. In the first 6–12 months after treatment, nightly retainer wear is critical. After that, most patients can transition to wearing retainers a few nights per week for the rest of their lives. At Sonrisa, we include retainers in every treatment plan and offer a lifetime retainer program so you are never left without one if yours is lost or worn out. Your treatment investment is only as permanent as your retention compliance.