At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, clear answers are just as important as clear aligners. Many people still wonder: Is Invisalign a retainer? Or is it something more? Today, Dr. Brandon Murphy, a Top 1% Diamond provider of Invisalign, explains what sets Invisalign apart, why it’s more than just a retainer, and how you can make the most of this modern approach to straighter teeth.
If you’ve heard mixed opinions about whether these clear aligners work the same way as retainers, this blog will help you finally get the clarity you need.
What Exactly Is Invisalign?
Most people know Invisalign as a clear, removable option for straightening teeth. These aligners use gentle, continuous force to guide teeth into better alignment. Patients receive a custom series of aligners that are changed out every one to two weeks as teeth shift gradually.
Unlike metal brackets and wires, these aligners are nearly invisible and removable. That means you can eat what you want, brush and floss normally, and still progress toward your best smile, as long as you wear your aligners at least 22 hours per day.
Discover Invisalign services here.
How Is a Retainer Different?
Many people confuse Invisalign with retainers because both are clear, removable trays. But the purpose is quite different. A retainer’s job is to hold your teeth in place after they’ve already been straightened.
In contrast, Invisalign aligners actively move your teeth. They use carefully calculated pressure to shift teeth bit by bit. Once your Invisalign treatment is finished, you’ll then need a retainer to keep that new smile in place.
Learn about Dr. Brandon Murphy and how he clarifies the difference between Invisalign and retainers for every patient.
Dr. Brandon Murphy on Invisalign vs Retainers
Dr. Brandon Murphy clarifies Invisalign’s purpose beyond retainers by explaining that Invisalign is an active treatment phase, not just a passive holding device. Patients should understand this difference so they know what to expect and how to maintain results for life.
When you choose Invisalign at Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, you’re investing in controlled tooth movement under expert supervision. Once your teeth reach their ideal alignment, Dr. Brandon Murphy will provide a retainer to help maintain that result.
Is Invisalign Used as a Retainer?
Some patients finish traditional braces and then wear Invisalign trays to correct mild relapse. In that sense, people sometimes assume they’re using Invisalign “as a retainer.” But even then, the clear trays are still performing tooth movement, not just holding teeth in place.
If your goal is to keep teeth from shifting after Invisalign, you’ll need a custom retainer. This may look very similar to your clear aligners, but the purpose is different. A retainer does not move teeth; it preserves what has already been achieved.
Find out if Invisalign functions as a retainer with Dr. Brandon Murphy.
Learn the Difference Between Retainers and Invisalign with Dr. Brandon Murphy
The best way to protect your investment in your smile is to follow your treatment plan from start to finish. After the last aligner, your retainer is the final step that locks your new smile in place.
Some patients are tempted to skip wearing a retainer after active treatment is completed, but this can lead to the teeth shifting back over time. Dr. Brandon Murphy reminds every patient that retention is just as important as straightening.
How Long Do I Wear Invisalign Aligners?
Most patients wear Invisalign for 6 to 24 months, depending on the complexity of their case. You’ll wear each set of aligners for about one to two weeks before switching to the next set in the series.
To achieve the desired result, you must wear the aligners at least 22 hours per day, removing them only to eat, drink, or brush and floss.
What Happens After Invisalign?
Once your final aligner is removed, you’ll graduate to a retainer. Dr. Brandon Murphy may recommend wearing your retainer full time for the first few months. Eventually, most patients shift to nighttime-only wear.
This ensures your teeth remain stable long term. Retainers should be replaced periodically to maintain a proper fit.
Why Murphy Dental Group, PLLC Is the Right Choice
At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, your smile is treated with the highest level of care and expertise. As a Top 1% Diamond provider of Invisalign, Dr. Brandon Murphy has successfully transformed countless smiles using the latest clear aligner technology.
With over 1200 hours of continuing education, Dr. Murphy is deeply committed to clinical excellence. After earning his Fellowship award, he achieved his Mastership award in 2025 – a distinction held by less than 2 percent of dentists.
Dr. Murphy has also earned his Fellowship award from the Academy of Clear Aligners. In addition to being a Top 1% Diamond provider of Invisalign, this Fellowship is only awarded to the top clinicians in North America. As of 2025, there are fewer than 140 Fellowship awardees.
Patients choose this team for their proven results, personalized plans, flexible Payment Plans and commitment to comfort.
How to Get Started with Invisalign
- Consultation: Meet with Dr. Brandon Murphy for an exam and custom plan.
- Custom Aligners: Digital scans create aligners fitted to your unique smile.
- Active Treatment: Wear aligners 22 hours daily, changing trays as directed.
- Retention Phase: When treatment ends, use a retainer to hold your results.
Contact us today to schedule your visit.
Get Clarity from Dr. Brandon Murphy on Invisalign’s Role
Every Invisalign journey is unique. Some patients have mild crowding, while others have complex bite issues. No matter your starting point, clear aligners offer discreet and effective tooth movement when supervised by an experienced provider like Dr. Brandon Murphy.
Using Invisalign aligners as a substitute for retainers without guidance can lead to unpredictable results. Get the facts upfront so you know what each part of your treatment does.
A Straight Smile Is Worth Keeping Straight
At Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, we make sure you never feel confused about your options. With Dr. Brandon Murphy’s experience as a Top 1% Diamond provider of Invisalign, you get trusted advice every step of the way.
Patients appreciate how clear aligners blend seamlessly into their daily lives with minimal disruption. Once you finish your series, remember your retainer is your best defense against relapse.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Your confident smile is just a consultation away. Meet Dr. Brandon Murphy today to find out if Invisalign is right for you and learn how to keep your smile straight for life.
Flexible payment plans make treatment accessible for every budget. Need directions? Find us here.
Conclusion:
Just like the buzz surrounding the new Superman movie has fans asking what’s next for the DC universe, you should be asking what’s next for your smile after Invisalign.
Your journey doesn’t end when the last aligner comes out. With the right retention plan, your smile stays strong for years to come, just like the superhero stories that continue to evolve for future generations.
Read more about what’s coming next for Superman and the DC universe here and don’t forget to plan what’s next for your smile, too.
Ready to get started? Contact Murphy Dental Group, PLLC and let Dr. Brandon Murphy guide you from clear aligners to lasting results.
Key Takeaways
- Invisalign is not a retainer. It moves teeth; retainers keep them stable.
- Wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day for optimal results.
- A retainer is essential to maintain your new smile.
- Trust an experienced provider like Dr. Brandon Murphy for clear results.
- Murphy Dental Group, PLLC, offers flexible payment plans and expert care.
Ready to begin? Click here to start your Invisalign journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Invisalign the same as a retainer?
No. Aligners actively move your teeth, while retainers hold them in place once the movement is complete.
2. Can I use old Invisalign trays as a retainer?
Not recommended. Old aligners are designed for active shifting. A retainer is custom-made to maintain the position of your teeth as they were after treatment.
3. How many hours per day do I wear Invisalign?
Wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day for optimal results.
4. What happens if I don’t wear my retainer after Invisalign?
Your teeth can slowly shift back. Wearing your retainer is critical to protecting your results.
5. How do I find Invisalign near me?
Visit Murphy Dental Group, PLLC at this map link and get easy driving directions.
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Remember: Always follow your dentist’s instructions for wearing aligners and retainers. Consistency is key to a lasting smile.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional dental advice. Please consult Dr. Brandon Murphy or your dental provider for personalized recommendations.
Dr. Brandon Murphy is a highly skilled dentist and a Top 1% Diamond Invisalign provider, recognized for his expertise in clear aligner therapy. With over 1,200 hours of continuing education, Dr. Murphy stays at the forefront of dental innovation to deliver the best possible care to his patients. He has earned the Fellowship and Mastership awards from the Academy of General Dentistry – an elite distinction achieved by less than 2% of dentists nationwide. Dr. Murphy also holds a prestigious Fellowship from the Academy of Clear Aligners, a title awarded to fewer than 140 leading clear aligner providers in North America.
Whether you’re exploring Invisalign for yourself or a loved one, Dr. Murphy combines advanced training, personalized treatment, and flexible payment options to help you achieve a confident, healthy smile. Schedule your Invisalign consultation with Dr. Murphy today and take the first step toward your ideal smile.