Bonded retainers

A bonded retainer (also called a fixed retainer) is a thin wire glued to the inside of your front teeth. It sits out of sight and holds your teeth straight after braces or aligners, all day and night, without you needing to remember to put it in.

Bonded retainer prices

Download the bonded retainers leaflet (PDF) with prices and aftercare.

Any dentist or orthodontic clinic can often provide bonded retainers, so you are welcome to contact other providers if you wish. Costs vary.

Why bonded retainers break over time

The wire is held on each tooth with a small amount of composite (tooth-coloured filling material). Every time you bite and chew, this material slowly wears down. Over time it can come away from a tooth, or the wire can break. This is normal wear and tear, not a sign that something was done wrongly. Bonded retainers need checking and repairing from time to time.

Keeping it clean

• Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Angle the brush behind your front teeth and brush up and down over the wire, especially where the teeth meet the gums.
• Clean under the wire every day. Normal floss cannot pass between teeth joined by a wire, so use a floss threader (or floss with a stiff end) to thread the floss under the wire, then clean the sides of each tooth.
• Interdental brushes are a good alternative. Choose a size that fits snugly between your teeth under the wire.
• Plaque and tartar build up easily around the wire, which can lead to gum problems and tooth decay. Keep seeing your regular dentist and hygienist for check-ups. They can also check your retainer.

Eating and drinking

• Avoid biting into hard foods with your front teeth, such as apples, raw carrots, crusty bread and hard sweets. Cut them into small pieces and chew with your back teeth.
• Avoid sticky and chewy foods such as toffees and chewing gum.
• Do not bite your nails, pens or other objects.
• Keep sugary foods and drinks to mealtimes to protect your teeth around the wire.

If it comes loose or breaks

• If you think your bonded retainer is broken, contact your regular dentist first. They can usually repair it. If they think it needs us, they can refer you to us, or you can refer yourself.
• Keep wearing your removable retainer every night (or as advised) until the bonded retainer is fixed.
• Never try to bend, cut or glue the wire yourself.
• Something sharp or rubbing? Press a small piece of orthodontic wax over it for relief, and try your regular dentist first. If they cannot help, you can contact us, but costs will apply for treatment.

Lost or broken a removable retainer? See our Lost or broken retainer page.

Questions? Ask your clinician during your appointment, or call us on 028 9045 1303.