So you’ve straightened your teeth — amazing! Whether you’ve had braces or clear aligners, one thing’s for sure: keeping that smile straight is just as important as getting it there. That’s where after care retainers come in, and one type you might have heard of is the bonded retainer.
At Urban Smile we can repair and replace your bonded retainer. You don’t need to be an existing patient and you don’t need a dentist referral – just book in here.
What Is a Bonded Retainer?
A bonded retainer (also called a fixed or permanent retainer) is a thin piece of wire that’s glued to the back of your teeth usually on the lower front teeth, but sometimes on the upper ones too. It’s custom-shaped to your smile and attached with a strong dental adhesive, designed to stay in place for a long time. Bonded retainers are known to need regular repair so be prepared for this, but in some cased they last many years!
Unlike removable retainers (clear plastic trays or Hawley retainers), bonded retainers stay put. You don’t take them out — ever (unless your orthodontist decides it’s time).
Why Are Bonded Retainers Used?
Teeth naturally want to shift back to their original position after orthodontic treatment especially in the first year. Bonded retainers are used to hold your teeth in place long-term, particularly in areas that are more prone to movement (like the lower front teeth).
Your orthodontist might recommend a bonded retainer if:
- You had significant crowding before treatment
- Your teeth are at high risk of shifting
- You’re likely to forget wearing a removable retainer (we’ve all been there)
- You want something low-maintenance and fuss-free
Like with anything, there are pros and cons to choosing a Bonded Retainer
Here are some things to consider:
Pros of Bonded Retainers
✔️ Always working
Since they’re permanently attached, bonded retainers work 24/7 to help keep your teeth in place. There is no need to remember to wear them.
✔️ Invisible from the front
They’re hidden behind your teeth, so no one will know you’re wearing one.
✔️ No risk of losing them
Unlike removable retainers, you can’t misplace them (or accidentally throw them out with your napkin at a café!).
✔️ Great for forgetful types
If you know you’re not great at keeping track of things, a bonded retainer can help take the pressure off remembering to wear them.
Cons of Bonded Retainers
❌ Harder to clean
You’ll need to be extra thorough when brushing and flossing around a bonded retainer. Floss threaders or interdental brushes are your new best friends. Be sure to have regular cleans with a dental professional. Urban Smile offer Express Cleans.
❌ They can come loose
If the wire or glue breaks, the retainer might stop working properly. It’s important to get it checked and repaired if that happens.
❌ Not removable
While that’s kind of the point, some people prefer the flexibility of being able to take their retainer out when they eat or clean.
❌ May cause plaque build-up
If you’re not diligent with oral hygiene, food and plaque can build up around the retainer and increase the risk of gum issues.
Is a Bonded Retainer Right for You?
Your orthodontist will recommend the best retainer option for your smile based on how your teeth were before treatment, how likely they are to shift, and your lifestyle. At Urban Smile we offer removable retainers with all our clear aligner treatment plans.
Some people have a combination — a bonded retainer on the bottom teeth and a removable one for the top. Whatever the case, retainers are your ticket to keeping that new smile looking great for the long haul.
Some helpful things to know.
Check your health insurance for orthodontics cover. Codes you will need are:
- New Bonded Retainer – Code 845 per arch
- Bonded Retainer Repair – Code 872
- Bonded Retainer Removals – Code 874 per arch
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Book contact your nearest studio here to find out more about your retainer options.