When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. Our office has plenty of options for retention. Retention is chosen by the doctor on an individual basis. The active retention phase lasts for 12 months, but it is recommended that retainers are worn at night until growth is completed at age 21. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.