The Truth About Orthodontic Retention: Why You Need Both Fixed and Removable Retainers

By Dr. Emily Willett, Lincoln Orthodontics

After months (or sometimes years) of wearing braces or Invisalign, the moment your orthodontic appliances come off is incredibly exciting. You finally get to see your new, confident smile—and it’s a big milestone! But here’s the part that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves: retention.

At Lincoln Orthodontics, we often say that retainers are for life. And while that might sound a little dramatic, it’s grounded in science and experience. Teeth naturally want to move over time. Without proper retention, all the hard work you put into your smile could slowly start to disappear. That’s why our team emphasizes the importance of wearing both fixed (bonded) retainers and removable retainers—each play a critical role in maintaining your results.

Why Do Teeth Shift?

Teeth are always moving. They’re held in place by the periodontal ligament, a flexible structure that allows minor movement in response to pressure. After orthodontic treatment, the bone and gums need time to stabilize around the new tooth positions. Even after that, everyday activities like chewing, talking, and even aging can cause your teeth to drift.

Without retention, this natural movement can cause your teeth to slowly shift back toward their original positions—a process called relapse.

The Role of Fixed (Bonded) Retainers

A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded to the back of your front teeth, typically on the lower arch. It’s completely invisible from the outside and stays in place 24/7. This type of retainer is especially effective because:

    • It works constantly without requiring effort from the patient.

    • It prevents spacing or crowding of the lower front teeth, which are the most prone to shifting.

    • It is ideal for patients who might forget—or struggle—to wear their removable retainers consistently.

That said, a fixed retainer requires excellent oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing around the wire is essential to prevent plaque buildup and gum issues.

The Role of Removable Retainers

A removable retainer, such as a clear Essix-style or traditional Hawley retainer, is worn primarily at night. It’s just as important as the fixed retainer, for a few key reasons:

    • It holds the back teeth and the bite in place, not just the front teeth.

    • It allows us to monitor for any slight changes in alignment over time.

    • It offers backup support if your fixed retainer breaks or becomes loose.

We recommend wearing your removable retainer every night for the first year, then transitioning to a few nights per week for maintenance—indefinitely.

Why Both Are Better Together

Think of it as a team effort. The fixed retainer keeps your most vulnerable teeth in line all day, while the removable retainer ensures the entire arch stays stable. One without the other might leave you more prone to relapse. Together, they give you the best possible chance of preserving your beautiful, straight smile for life.

Final Thoughts

Retention isn’t the end of your orthodontic journey—it’s a lifelong commitment to the results you worked hard to achieve. At Lincoln Orthodontics, we’re here to support you every step of the way, with custom retainers, check-ins, and expert advice whenever you need it.

If you have questions about your retainers or if it’s been a while since your last check, we’d love to see you. Your smile is worth protecting!