How many hours a day should Invisalign aligners be worn?

Aligners should be worn for 22 hours a day. The longer you wear them, the better the results.

How often are review visits needed during aligner treatment?

Once the attachments and IPR are completed, review appointments are optional but encouraged, as long as each new aligner fits well. A clean-up and progress check once every six months is encouraged and is charged separately.

Written for The Smile Makers Dental Clinic

Do I Need Retainers After Invisalign, and for How Long? Dr. Shaili Shah Bodhwani Answers

Short answer: Yes. After Invisalign or any clear aligner treatment, retainers keep your teeth in their new positions. Dr. Shaili Shah Bodhwani (Orthodontist) advises wearing them long term: at least the first 6 months through the day and night, and after that at least another 6 months only at night.

Dr. Mohit Bodhwani and Dr. Shaili Shah Bodhwani with their iTero Element 5D imaging system at The Smile Makers, Khar West, Mumbai

What types of retainers are there?

Fixed retainer (LBR): a thin wire fixed behind the front teeth, so it stays in place full time.
Removable retainer (Essix): a clear tray, similar in look to an aligner, that you take out when needed.

Dr. Shaili’s preferred choice is the removable retainer, but each option has its own pros and cons. The right one for you depends on your case and is decided at the end of treatment.

How long do you need to wear retainers?

Retainers are worn long term:

First 6 months, minimum: through the day and night, about 22 hours a day.
After that, minimum another 6 months: only during the night.

What should you keep in mind during aligner treatment?

Wear your aligners for 22 hours a day. The longer you wear them, the better the results.
If small corrections are needed at the end, refinement aligners are included with the Moderate and Full Invisalign plans, but not with Lite.
Once the attachments and IPR are completed, review appointments are optional but encouraged. As long as each new aligner is fitting well, things are on course.

Have a dental problem or want a check-up? Message the clinic on WhatsApp and we will help you book a time.

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How often should you come in afterwards?

A clean-up and progress check once every six months is encouraged. This visit is charged separately from your aligner treatment.

Finishing Invisalign or considering it in Khar West?

Orthodontic treatment at The Smile Makers Dental Clinic is planned by Dr. Shaili Shah Bodhwani, MDS (Orthodontics), an orthodontist with 15 years of experience. The clinic is an Invisalign Provider in Khar West, Mumbai. For current treatment fees, see our transparent fee structure (edited in October 2026).

Book Appointment on WhatsApp or call +91 98190 39311

Also read: Invisalign and clear aligners in Khar West, Mumbai: is it right for you?

This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Please read our medical disclaimer.