Retainers don’t last forever, and a worn one can let teeth drift. Here’s how long each type typically lasts and when to replace yours.
By the FixUrSmile Dental Lab team · Updated September 2026
| Type | Typical lifespan* |
|---|---|
| Clear (Essix) | About 6 months to 3 years |
| Vivera | About 1 to 5 years |
| Hawley (wire) | About 5 to 10 years |
| Permanent (bonded) | Up to about 20 years |
*Ranges reported by Dentaly. Actual lifespan depends on care and wear.
FixUrSmile custom clear retainers are $145 per arch or $265 for both, made from impressions you take at home. More in retainer replacement.
Clear retainers commonly last about 6 months to 3 years. Replace yours when it cracks, warps, loosens, or stays cloudy.
They don’t have an expiration date, but they wear out. Plastic retainers in particular weaken and lose fit over time.
Hawley retainers commonly last about 5 to 10 years with good care.
Yes. Grinding can wear holes in clear retainers or crack them faster.
Custom clear retainer, $145 per arch. Made in our US dental lab from impressions you take at home, with licensed dentist approval and our Custom Fit Guarantee.
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