Fixed retainers
A retainer is an orthodontic device that keeps your teeth straight after your braces have been removed. It takes a while for your soft tissue and jaw to adapt to the new position of your straightened teeth, so you need a retainer to hold them in place.
How does a fixed retainer work?
A fixed retainer consists of a thin metal wire that’s permanently bonded behind your teeth to hold them in place. They’re sometimes known as bonded retainers or permanent retainers. The image shows what a fixed retainer looks like.
Do I need to wear fixed or removable retainers?
If you opt for a fixed retainer, your orthodontist may recommend you wear a removable one as well, because a permanent retainer is only attached to your front six teeth. If you’ve had your back teeth straightened too, you’ll need to wear a removable retainer alongside your fixed one to keep them in position.
When you’re nearing the end of your treatment, your orthodontist will talk you through the options available to you and you can ask any questions you might have.
Caring for a fixed retainer
You’ll need to care for a fixed retainer in a similar way to braces, brushing and flossing carefully to make sure the wire and your teeth stay clean.
We’ll also recommend you visit your general dentist regularly and see a hygienist to make sure your oral heath is in good condition.
What are the pros and cons of fixed retainers?
Pros
- They’re permanently attached to your teeth, so you won’t need to worry about taking them in and out
- They’re very discreet as they’re fixed behind your teeth
- A fixed retainer won’t affect the way you speak
Cons
- You’ll need to take extra care with your oral health, as the wire can make it harder to clean your teeth
- You’ll need to avoid eating hard and crunchy foods to avoid breaking the wire
- You may also need to wear a removable retainer to keep your back teeth in place
What to expect
At your consultation, we will chat through your options and suitability for different teeth straightening treatments.
*Terms and conditions:
1. Free consultations are to discuss options and suitability for treatment. You may require a more in-depth clinical examination or diagnostic tests before treatment options can be discussed. There may be a charge for such examination or test, payable by you. The clinician will discuss this with you before any such examination or test takes place, which may be done during the same appointment as your free consultation.
2. Children under 18 can be referred for a free NHS assessment, subject to availability of appointments. Private consultations for children are excluded from this offer and will be charged at our standard rate but the charge will be refunded to you in full if the child commences private treatment following the consultation.
3. Consultations subject to availability.
4. Free consultations available at participating practices only.
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Find out more
More about retainers and braces
Retainers
Find out more about retainers including why you need them following teeth straightening treatment.
Removable retainers
Removable retainers are made of clear, plastic material and can be taken in and out.
Looking after retainers
Find out how to care for your retainers following teeth straightening treatment.
Cost of braces
Learn more about how much braces might cost and the different options available to you.
Types of braces
Learn more about the types of treatment available at Total Orthodontics, including fixed braces and discreet, removable options.
Our orthodontists
*Form Terms and conditions:
1. Free consultations are to discuss options and suitability for treatment. You may require a more in-depth clinical examination or diagnostic tests before treatment options can be discussed. There may be a charge for such examination or test, payable by you. The clinician will discuss this with you before any such examination or test takes place, which may be done during the same appointment as your free consultation.
2. Children under 18 can be referred for a free NHS assessment, subject to availability of appointments. Private consultations for children are excluded from this offer and will be charged at our standard rate but the charge will be refunded to you in full if the child commences private treatment following the consultation.
3. Consultations subject to availability.
4. Free consultations available at participating practices only.
Total Orthodontics and Bupa Dental Care are trading names of Oasis Dental Care Limited. Registered in England Wales No: 00478127. Registered office: Bupa Dental Care, Vantage Office Park, Old Gloucester Road, Hambrook, Bristol, United Kingdom BS16 1GW.
