Clear Retainers - What happens if I keep them out for a bit?

[Adelleda]

I had invisalign for a little over 2 years and just got all the attachments and hooks off today, and got a clear plastic retainer to wear. I was told to wear it all the time except when eating and then after 6 months I'll just have to wear it at night. I'm not sure how strict I should be with wearing it all the time. What should I do if I want to go to the bar and have some drinks? Should I take them out or keep them in? I got into a very bad habit during my invisalign treatment and kept the aligners in almost all the time (even when eating), and only took them out to brush basically. I don't want my retainers to get all gross and I want to maintain better oral hygiene! So is it better to keep them in in that situation or take them out for a few hours?
Also, what should I do to clean the retainers? Is it okay to only brush them in the morning and at night?

[dylanmorris]

I don't think it will hurt a little if you take them off for sometime. Just make sure that you use it more than not. The entire treatment needs religious wearing of it so you will achieve a perfect smile in the end.