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Permanent retainers stay glued discreetly behind your teeth. Studies show that between 30% and 70% of orthodontic patients may experience some tooth movement without consistent retention. However, a permanent retainer greatly reduces the risk of noticeable shifting over time.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about permanent retainers, what they are, how they work, and how much they cost.etal wire cemented to your teeth. The wire is either smooth and solid or has a braided texture.
A permanent or fixed retainer is a metal wire cemented to your teeth. The wire is either smooth and solid or has a braided texture.
An orthodontist often recommends a fixed retainer after finishing orthodontic treatment with clear aligners or braces. The retainer ensures your teeth don’t shift or return to their original position.
Your orthodontist may also recommend one if you have problems with wearing removable retainers regularly. However, there must be a certain amount of natural tooth surface for the bonding material to adhere and fix the retainer in place.
A fixed retainer is a thin, braided stainless steel or titanium wire secured with composite resin bonding material behind your teeth, usually from canine to canine. Installing it takes about 15 to 30 minutes during a routine dental visit.
Retainers differ slightly depending on the placement. For instance, lower teeth retainers are commonly bonded canine-to-canine due to the high risk of relapse.
Meanwhile, upper fixed retainers may be spot‑bonded or bonded across multiple front teeth, depending on the orthodontist’s assessment of relapse risk.
Permanent retainers cost between $200 and $600 for the initial placement or replacement. Fortunately, permanent retainers don’t often need to be replaced.
The placement cost may be included in the total price of your orthodontic treatment. Some dental insurance plans may also cover the cost of permanent retainers.
A fixed retainer offers significant convenience but isn’t maintenance-free. Here are some of its pros and cons:
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| You don’t need to take them off. | The process of fixing a permanent retainer may take 15 to 30 minutes. |
| It’s discreet because it’s bonded behind your teeth. | Brushing and flossing around a permanent retainer can be challenging. |
| It doesn’t affect how you speak. | Increased risk of cavities and gum disease if you can’t properly maintain and clean them. |
| You can’t lose it. | Sugary foods like soda may increase the risk of decay and weakening of the bonding material, potentially loosening the retainer. |
| It’s durable for normal wear, but hard or crunchy foods can still bend or break the wire. | Certain foods, like apples or steak, can bend or break the wire out of place. |
| The metal wire may break off or debond, requiring replacement or repair. |
Permanent retainers are generally better for people who've experienced significant orthodontic treatment. Because of this, their teeth need constant guidance to keep them in place.
On the other hand, removable retainers are better for people who need minor control. Their flexibility is also suitable for people with active lifestyles or dietary habits.
Additionally, removable retainers are usually made for the upper teeth. Meanwhile, permanent retainers are typically placed on the back surfaces of the lower front teeth.
Brush your teeth as usual, but angle your brush carefully to avoid loosening the bond. Get the bristles in and out around the crevices of the teeth to ensure every area is cleaned.
It’s important to floss despite how difficult it can be. Consider using a water flosser or floss threader to help with flossing around the retainer.
Watch for warning signs like rough edges on the wire, sudden teeth shifting, or swollen gums; these require prompt dental attention. Lastly, schedule dental check-ups every six months and visit your orthodontist promptly if issues arise.
A bonded wire retainer can last 10 years or more with proper care. This is significantly longer than some other types of retainers.
If your permanent retainer breaks, a repair might be possible. A repair will cost less than a replacement.
Retainers can safely be removed if gum recession occurs, significant wear is evident, or additional orthodontic treatment is needed. Removal is a straightforward, painless procedure that takes around 10 minutes, followed by a gentle enamel polish.
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