Expired Products: What You Need to Know

10. Retainers

Duration: 6 months to 3 years * The average cost for a single dental arch is $150–$300. Your teeth can be straightened up with the use of retainers, giving you a gorgeous smile. It goes without saying that there are guidelines for how and when to clean your retainer. However, the type of retainer you have will determine when to change it.

Retainers: ©Shutterstock/AUWAE Photo You should replace a bonded retainer, which is a retainer that is cemented to the back of your teeth, no more frequently than every three years. Your retainer's lifespan is shortened if it is detachable. These retainers usually last anything from a few years to six months. If you're unsure, ask your dentist about the replacement timeline. Of course, you should replace your retainer as soon as possible if it becomes broken or doesn't fit correctly.