How Much Do Retainers Cost?

Retainers are often overlooked but are critical to keeping your teeth in place after teeth straightening treatment such as Invisalign^® clear aligners and traditional braces.

The cost for retainers varies. How much you’ll pay will depend on several factors such as your insurance coverage, provider, and the type of retainer your provider recommends.¹ If you’re concerned about extra fees after paying for your aligners or braces, find out from your provider if the cost is included in the overall fee quoted for aligning your teeth. If not, then ask if your insurance plan covers them.

Retainers 101

You typically wear retainers following orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign aligners.² They are usually made from plastic and/or wires, helping to keep your teeth from shifting back over time.

Will I need to wear a retainer?

Only your practitioner can tell you for sure, but if you're currently wearing (or expecting to wear) braces or clear aligners, you should expect to wear a retainer after your treatment. Your teeth need help to keep them from shifting back to their old position once your treatment is over. Retainers give your teeth that help, giving the bones and other parts of your mouth time to rebuild after straightening.³

What are the different types of retainers?

There are two basic types of retainers, fixed and removable. Fixed retainers are slender wires that are cemented to your teeth. Doctors recommend fixed retainers for situations where it’s important for you to always wear your retainer.⁴ Fixed retainers are attached to the back of your teeth, making them almost impossible for other people to see.

Removable retainers are not bonded to your mouth, allowing you to easily put them in and take them out. Many removable retainers are made from either a combination of plastic and wire, such as Hawley retainers, or from clear plastic, like Essix and Vivera™ retainers.

How much do retainers cost?

Retainers cost varies significantly. The exact amount depends on factors such as your specific needs, your doctor, your insurance coverage, and the type of retainer recommended by your provider.⁵ Some providers may also offer protection plans that can affect how much you pay. Pricing can vary based on individual needs. Contact your doctor to learn more.

Will I have to pay for retainers on top of my alignment treatment fee?

Talk to your orthodontist to confirm.

Will my insurance help pay for my retainers?

Many dental plans cover at least one set of post-treatment retainers.⁶ Some dental plans may even cover retainers after both phases of a two-phase orthodontic treatment plan.⁷ To be sure, it’s best to speak directly with your insurance provider. Your orthodontist can also work with your insurance provider to determine exactly what’s covered.

How much will it cost to replace my retainer?

If you lose or damage your traditional removable retainers, chances are you’ll need to pay out of pocket to replace them. Replacement retainers may not be covered by your insurance provider⁶ or included in your treatment fee.⁸

Replacing Vivera retainers is easier compared to other retainers

Every initial order of Vivera retainers comes with up to four sets of retainers that can serve as backups in case of loss, breakage, or damage.

What makes Vivera retainers different from traditional Hawley retainers?

Vivera retainers use the same state-of-the-art technology that makes Invisalign aligners so special. They are the #1 dentist-recommended retainer for teens.⁹ Over 4 million people worldwide have used Vivera retainers to preserve their smile.¹⁰

Doctors are more satisfied with Vivera retainers

Doctors who’ve used Vivera retainers are more satisfied with Vivera retainers compared to other types of retainers.¹¹ In fact, Vivera retainers are preferred by doctors over in-house and lab-made options for retaining teeth in position and ensuring patient satisfaction.¹²

Vivera retainers are more comfortable than other retainers

Nine out of ten surveyed users agree that Vivera retainers are the most comfortable retainers they have ever used.¹³

Vivera are more discreet than other retainers

Vivera retainers offer the same virtually-invisible look that Invisalign aligners are known for.

Vivera retainers are stronger and more durable than other clear retainers

The material used to make Vivera retainers is 30% stronger and twice as durable as other leading clear retainers.¹⁴

Vivera retainers aren’t just for Invisalign aligners

Vivera retainers are not just for people who have straightened their smile with Invisalign treatment. Vivera retainers can be worn following any teeth straightening treatment such as braces or other types of clear aligners.

Talk to your orthodontist

Talk to your orthodontist about the retainer options that are right for you and your treatment plan. Don’t have an orthodontist? Try Invisalign’s Find a Doctor tool to find an Invisalign-trained provider near you.