| A fixed retainer typically consists of a passive wire bonded to the tongue-side of the incisors. Fixed retainers cannot be removed by the patient.. These retainers are custom-made to retain the position of each tooth to which they are bonded. After a few days you will forget that you even have them in your mouth. |
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 | We frequently recommend the use of bonded retainers. While the device is usually required until a year after wisdom teeth have been extracted it is often kept in place for life. You can keep the bonded wire(s) indefinitely, as long as you keep them clean. These retainers are far more efficient in controlling tooth position as well as more cost-effective than removable retainers. There is no guarantee that your teeth will remain straight once it is removed. If you choose to have it removed, you must wear your clear aligners nightly. Teeth move throughout our lives and retention is a long-term commitment! |
| Fixed retainers may lead to tartar build-up or gingivitis due to the difficulty of flossing while wearing these retainers. As with dental braces, patients often must use floss threaders to pass dental floss through the small space between the retainer and the teeth. |
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| The bonded wire can be broken or dislodged if it is abused by biting hard foods with your front teeth. Be cautious with ice cubes, beef jerky, raw carrots, apples, corn on the cob, hard bread, pizza crust, and hard or sticky candies such as taffy. |
| If your bonded wire comes loose or breaks, call the office (021-66520980) immediately for an appointment. Then begin wearing your clear aligners 24 hours a day to prevent tooth shifting. There will be a charge for repairs to the bonded wire-so be gentle. Keep that great smile! |
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