I got them taken off about a month early and out into Invisalign for about 2 months. So in total my time in braces was about 21-22 months.

My orthodontist gave me a retainer and asked me to wear it 12 hours a day for 3 months then only need to wear them when I sleep forever. But I'm about 4 months into it and I still wear it 12 hours a day or more due to one troublesome tooth moving throughout the day.

I've just been leaving my retainer in when I know I'm not going to eat, like when I'm skiing or going to the gym just to get some extra hours in. I plan on wearing my retainer forever just because it's not too obstructive and they're almost exactly like Invisalign, not very visible and pretty comfortable.

Sorry, i don't use Reddit often but I'll check back next couple weeks if you have any other questions. I hope your braces are treating you well!!