A fixed or permanent retainer is a wire that your orthodontist bonds behind 2-6 of your front teeth to help maintain their position. While they can be useful in specific situations, there are several drawbacks to consider. Let’s start with the cons to help you make an informed decision:
Cons of Fixed Retainers
They don’t replace a removable retainer for nighttime use.
If you’re hoping to avoid wearing a removable retainer at night, think again. Fixed retainers only stabilize the front 2-6 teeth, leaving your back teeth and bite unsupported. I’ve had patients who skipped their nighttime retainer, only to discover that their fixed retainer had broken, leading to significant tooth movement before they realized it. For this reason, it’s crucial to wear your nighttime retainer even if you have a fixed retainer, as it helps prevent any unwanted shifting of your teeth.
They can break.
Fixed retainers are glued or bonded in place, similar to braces, and can break if you bite into something sticky or hard, or floss incorrectly. A broken retainer can cause discomfort—or even injury—and may go unnoticed until your teeth have already shifted. Repairing a broken retainer can be expensive, and if your removable retainer no longer fits over the repaired fixed retainer, you may need a replacement.
You need to watch what you eat.
Like braces, fixed retainers limit what you can safely eat. You’ll need to avoid biting into hard or sticky foods, such as apples or carrots, with your front teeth.
They’re hard to clean.
Think of a fixed retainer as braces on the tongue side of your teeth. Food can easily get trapped, and plaque can build up. Because fixed retainers are harder to see and access, diligent brushing and flossing are essential. Neglecting oral hygiene around a fixed retainer can lead to cavities or other dental issues.
Pros of Fixed Retainers
With all those cons, you might wonder why I’d recommend a fixed retainer at all. Here are the key situations where they’re beneficial:
They provide extra support for patients who struggle with wearing removable retainers.
If you or your child aren’t consistent with wearing a nighttime retainer, a fixed retainer can act as an “insurance policy” to help keep the teeth aligned.
They’re essential for maintaining closed spaces.
If you started with a large gap between your teeth—like the upper front teeth—a fixed retainer helps prevent the space from reopening. Even with excellent nighttime retainer wear, gaps can reopen during the day. A fixed retainer prevents this back-and-forth movement, which can harm teeth and surrounding structures over time.
They stabilize stubborn teeth.
Some teeth are naturally resistant to staying in place. For example, teeth that were severely crowded or flared to correct overjet may have a tendency to shift back. A fixed retainer can provide the extra stability needed in these cases.
My Takeaway
For most patients, wearing a nighttime retainer consistently is enough to maintain alignment. Over time, it becomes a habit—I personally can’t sleep without mine! But in specific situations, like large gaps or stubborn teeth, a fixed retainer can be a helpful tool.
Be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and discuss your options with your orthodontist to determine what’s best for you or your child.
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