Choosing Between Fixed and Removable Retainers: Find Your Perfect Fit

When maintaining a straight and beautiful smile after orthodontic treatment, choosing the right retainer is key. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide between fixed or removable retainers. Both types have their own unique advantages and drawbacks, so making this decision requires careful consideration. 

In this post, you’ll learn what is the purpose of retainers and the different orthodontic retainer options to help you determine which one may be the perfect fit for your lifestyle and dental needs. 

Fixed Retainer vs Removable Retainer

After orthodontic treatment, patients may be required to wear retainers in order to prevent teeth from shifting back and keep them in the new position. Retainers after braces come in two types: fixed and removable. 

Fixed retainers (bonded or permanent retainers) are attached to the inside of the front teeth by an orthodontist using a special dental adhesive. They are not removable by the patient and remain in place indefinitely.

Removable retainers, on the other hand, can be taken out of the mouth for cleaning and sleeping. They are made to fit snugly over the teeth. Common types of removable retainers include Hawley, clear/vacuum-formed, and Essix retainers.

It is important to understand both types. Here are the benefits of retainers and their downsides:

Fixed Retainers Pros & Cons

Pros

1. Continuous retention: Fixed retainers provide 24/7 support to keep your teeth in their new positions indefinitely.
2. Compliance is not an issue: Unlike removable retainers, fixed retainers cannot be taken out, eliminating the risk of non-compliance.
3. Aesthetically pleasing: Fixed retainers are bonded at the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible when you smile or talk.
4. Durable and long-lasting: Fixed retainers are built to last and can remain in place for many years without needing replacement.
5. Convenient: You don’t need to remember to put them in or take them out, which can be helpful for those with memory or movement difficulties.

Cons

1. Oral hygiene challenges: Cleaning around the wire can be more difficult, requiring special tools like interdental brushes or floss threaders.
2. Risk of breakage: The wire may break or detach from the teeth, necessitating a trip to the orthodontist for repair.
3. Restrictions on hard/crunchy foods: Consuming hard or sticky foods can potentially cause the wire to break or the adhesive to loosen over time.
4. Discomfort: The wire may cause irritation to the tongue or inside of the lips in some cases.
5. Higher initial cost: Fixed retainers may have a more significant upfront cost compared to removable retainers, although they may be more cost-effective in the long run due to fewer replacements.

Removable Retainers: Pros & Cons

Pros

1. Easier cleaning: Removable retainers can be taken out for thorough brushing and flossing, making it simpler to maintain good oral hygiene. The plastic material is also easy to clean and less prone to staining.
2. Comfort: Removable retainers are generally more comfortable to wear than fixed retainers. Smooth, flexible plastic is less likely to irritate the mouth or gums, and it is less bulky.
3. Customisation: Removable retainers are custom-made to fit your teeth precisely, providing a personalised fit that helps keep teeth in place and reduces the risk of slippage.
4. Convenience: You can take out removable retainers when eating, brushing, or flossing, allowing you to maintain your regular diet and oral hygiene routine without restrictions.

Cons

1. Compliance-dependent: Removable retainers are only effective when worn consistently as recommended by your orthodontist. Failure to wear them as directed can lead to relapse.
2. Risk of loss or damage: Removable retainers are more prone to being misplaced or damaged due to their frequent removal and handling.
3. Maintenance requirements: Regular brushing and cleaning of removable retainers are necessary to prevent odours and the buildup of calcium deposits. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to issues.
4. Need for replacement: Removable retainers may require replacement more often than fixed retainers due to wear and tear over time.
5. Visibility: Removable retainers, especially those with metal wires, can be more noticeable than fixed retainers and may impact the aesthetics of your smile.

Choosing the Right Retainer

Choosing between a fixed or removable retainer can be a difficult decision. Here are the key factors to consider:

Lifestyle Considerations

Fixed retainers are bonded to the teeth permanently, which is ideal for those with an active lifestyle or who have difficulty remembering to wear a removable retainer consistently.

Removable retainers offer more flexibility, making them a good choice for those who engage in activities that could potentially damage a fixed retainer.

Oral Hygiene

Post-braces care is essential to maintaining good oral hygiene. Fixed retainers require more diligent cleaning, as floss threaders or interdental brushes are needed to remove plaque and food debris around the wire.

Removable retainers are easier to clean, as they can be taken out and brushed thoroughly with toothpaste. However, they do require daily cleaning to prevent bacteria buildup and odours.

Risk of Teeth Shifting

Both fixed and removable retainers are effective at keeping teeth in place when worn as directed. Fixed retainers provide continuous, hands-free retention, while removable retainers rely on patient compliance.

If a removable retainer is not worn consistently, there is a higher risk of teeth shifting back to their original positions. Fixed retainers eliminate this risk, as they are always in place.

Orthodontist Recommendations

Your orthodontist is the one to advise you on the most suitable type of retainer based on your specific needs and treatment plan. They will consider the complexity of your case, the stability of your bite, and your personal preferences. 

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right retainer helps preserve the results of orthodontic treatment and ensures your smile remains as beautiful as it was intended. It’s essential to follow your orthodontist’s guidance closely, as they can tailor recommendations to fit your individual needs and lifestyle.

Ultimately, the goal of retainers is to secure lasting results, so consult with your orthodontist to determine the best retainer option that will work for you.