Fixed vs. Removable Retainers: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?

Your orthodontic treatment isn’t quite complete once your braces come off or you finish your last set of aligners—retainers are the key to keeping your smile in place for life. But when it comes to choosing between a fixed and a removable retainer, which one is right for you?

At Beecroft Orthodontics, we want you to feel confident in your decision. Let’s break down the differences between fixed and removable retainers, and the pros and cons of each.

What Is a Fixed Retainer?

A **fixed retainer** is a thin wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth—usually on the lower front teeth, and sometimes on the top.

Pros of Fixed Retainers:

Always working—no need to remember to wear it
Completely invisible from the front
Helps prevent shifting in high-risk areas

Cons of Fixed Retainers:

Can be harder to clean around (you’ll need to floss carefully)
Might come loose and need repair
Doesn’t protect upper or lower arch unless both are bonded

What Is a Removable Retainer?

A removable retainer is usually made from clear plastic (like an Essix retainer) or wire and acrylic (like a Hawley retainer). It’s worn mostly at night and can be taken out when eating, brushing, or for special occasions.

Pros of Removable Retainers:

Easy to clean and care for
Covers more teeth and provides full-arch retention
Some can double as night guards

Cons of Removable Retainers:

You have to remember to wear it
Can get lost or damaged if not stored properly
Not working if it’s not in your mouth!

So… Which Retainer Should You Get?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your treatment, your teeth, and your lifestyle. Here’s how we help patients decide at Beecroft Orthodontics:

Fixed Retainers Are Great For:

Patients likely to forget to wear a retainer
Those with a lot of crowding before treatment
Anyone who wants a “set it and forget it” solution

Removable Retainers Are Great For:

Patients who want to keep things clean and easy to brush/floss
Those who had mild corrections
Anyone who needs protection from grinding (ask us about dual-purpose retainers!)

What Does Your Orthodontist Recommend?

At Virginia Braces, we often recommend a combination: a fixed retainer for the lower teeth and a removable clear retainer for the top. This offers the best of both worlds—automatic retention on the bottom and flexible protection on the top.

We’ll review your specific case at your deband appointment, where we take the braces off, and recommend the best retainer option to protect your new smile.

🛡️ Ask About Our Retainer Program

Worried about losing your retainer or needing a replacement later? Virginia Braces offers a No Smile Left Behind retainer program, which includes multiple sets of retainers per year for 5 years—so you’re always covered.

📅 Ready to Protect Your Smile?

Whether you’re wrapping up treatment or just getting started, our team is here to help you understand every step—including what comes after the braces.

Book your consultation today to talk to one of our experienced doctors and find out which type of retainer is best for you!

👉 Schedule a Free Consult
📍 Serving Arlington, Charlottesville, Woodbridge, and Ruckersville.

Fixed Retainer vs. Removable Retainer: Which One Should You Get?