What is a retainer?
A retainer is an appliance that helps teeth stay in their new position after orthodontic treatment. While teeth move during treatment, the fibres and gum tissue around them are also reorganised, and it takes time for these tissues to adapt to the new position. The retention period supports this adaptation. For more information, see our retention treatment page.
Types of retainer
| Type | How it is used | Points to note |
|---|---|---|
| Removable clear retainer | Taken out and put back in; usually worn all day at first, then at night | It only works while it is worn; it can be damaged by heat |
| Fixed (wire) retainer | Bonded to the back surface of the front teeth | The area around it needs careful cleaning; it can come loose |
| Removable wire retainer | Acrylic body and wire; taken out and put back in | Preferred in some cases; a case is needed for storage |
Your orthodontist decides which type suits you; many patients use a fixed and a removable retainer together. For a comparison, see the blog post Retainer types: fixed or removable?
Common topics: which page?
- How long is a retainer worn? Wear time and what can happen if it is not worn.
- Retainer cleaning and care: Daily cleaning, storage and what to avoid.
- Fixed retainer care and problems: Floss threader, tartar, a broken wire.
- Retainer problems and solutions: Does not fit, feels tight, broken, discoloured.
- Retainer frequently asked questions: Short answers.
- Retainer check-up tracker: Add your check-up dates to your calendar.
If a retainer is lost or broken
Contact the clinic promptly; teeth can shift when the appliance is not worn, especially in the first months after treatment. Details: What to do if you lose your retainer and Why it matters to replace a broken retainer.
If teeth have shifted
If teeth have shifted because a retainer was not worn, a new retainer or a short course of clear aligner treatment may be planned, depending on the amount of movement. This decision is made after an examination; see Do teeth shift again after braces are removed?
For questions, you can call 0312 911 60 36 or use the form on the contact page.
This page is for general information only; your orthodontist decides the type of retainer, the wear schedule and how often you are seen for check-ups.
