Short answer: A fixed retainer is a thin wire that is usually bonded with a special adhesive to the back surface of the lower and/or upper front teeth. Because it is not taken out of the mouth, it does not depend on a daily habit of putting it in and taking it out; however, the area around it needs careful cleaning and regular check-ups. It is often used together with a removable retainer.
How does a fixed retainer work?
The wire connects the teeth to one another in a way that helps hold them in their post-treatment positions. It is usually not visible from outside; on the tongue side it can be felt as a thin wire. In the first days there may be a slight difference in speech, and most people get used to it quickly.
How it differs from a removable retainer
- Use: A removable retainer is put in and taken out; a fixed retainer stays in place.
- Discipline: A removable retainer can be forgotten or lost; a fixed retainer does not have this risk.
- Cleaning: A removable retainer is cleaned outside the mouth; for a fixed wire, special tools are needed inside the mouth.
- Check-ups: Whether the fixed wire is still intact is checked at regular appointments.
The dentist decides which one, or which combination, is suitable. For a broader comparison, you can read retainer types: fixed or removable?
How is a fixed retainer cleaned?
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, paying attention to the area right around the wire as well.
- Use a floss threader to pass floss under the wire.
- Clean the area between the wire and the tooth with an interdental brush.
- Have regular dental check-ups and professional tartar cleaning.
Tartar can build up more easily around the wire; if you notice redness or bleeding of the gums, step up your cleaning and make an appointment for a check-up.
If the wire breaks or comes loose
- Do not try to bend or re-bond the wire yourself.
- If it pokes your tongue or cheek, you can cover it temporarily with orthodontic wax.
- Contact the clinic soon; while the wire is loose, the teeth may shift.
- If part of the wire has been swallowed, or if there is marked pain, swelling or difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 112.
For details, see fixed retainer care and problems.
What should you pay attention to?
- Biting hard and sticky foods with the front teeth can break the wire; cut them into small pieces.
- Habits such as biting nails or pens can damage the wire.
- Do not skip check-up appointments; even if the wire looks intact, it may have loosened.
Why are check-ups needed even with a fixed retainer?
A fixed retainer carries no risk of being forgotten, but check-ups are needed to make sure it has not been damaged. You can add your check-up dates to your calendar with the retention tracking tool. We have explained what can happen if a retainer is not worn in what happens if you don’t wear your retainer?; for general information, you can take a look at the retainer guide.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a fixed retainer stay in?
The duration varies with the dentist’s assessment; it is often left in place for a long time. The wire’s condition is monitored at regular check-ups.
Is a removable retainer also needed with a fixed retainer?
In some cases both are recommended together; for some people a fixed retainer alone may be considered enough. The decision is made at the examination.
Can a fixed retainer cause tooth decay?
If the area around the wire is not cleaned well enough, plaque and tartar can build up. A floss threader, an interdental brush and regular check-ups help reduce this risk.
How do you find out what suits you?
The information here is general; the right retention plan for you is determined by an examination and the dentist’s assessment. We go through your questions together at our clinic in Oran, Çankaya, Ankara. For appointments and directions, you can visit our contact page.
