At a glance
- A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded behind the front teeth, and plaque and tartar collect around it easily.
- Brush carefully around the wire and along the gum line every day.
- Use a floss threader or special floss to clean under the wire and between the teeth.
- Small interdental brushes or a water flosser can help too.
- Ask us to check the retainer at your dental visits. If it feels loose or a tooth moves, contact the practice.
Caring for your fixed retainer
Fixed retainers are very effective at keeping teeth straight, but they need a cleaning routine. In this video, Dr Sarah Sadek shows simple ways to keep the wire and the surrounding teeth clean.
If the wire has come away from a tooth, or feels sharp, do not ignore it. A loose fixed retainer can let teeth move, so book a check promptly.
Your questions answered
How can I floss with a fixed retainer?
Use a floss threader or floss with a stiffened end to pass under the wire, then clean each side of the tooth. Interdental brushes and water flossers help too.
My fixed retainer has come loose. What should I do?
Contact the practice promptly. Avoid biting on it, and ask whether to wear your removable retainer until it is repaired.
Will a fixed retainer last for life?
Many last for years, but wires can break or come unstuck. Regular checks help catch problems early.
Save on treatment with an SW3 Dental plan
Student Smile members get 15% off all treatments, including aligners and braces. Smile for Life plan members get 10% off private treatment, including aligners. Both plans also cover your check-ups and hygiene visits.
Student plans from £12.95/month → Practice plans from £14.95/month →
12-month minimum term. Student plans need a valid student card. The SW3 Essentials plan discount does not include aligners; full details and exclusions are in the terms. Student terms · Practice plan terms.
Seeing us in Chelsea
SW3 Dental is on the first floor at 295 King's Road, London SW3 5EP, a short bus ride from Sloane Square and within walking distance of South Kensington station. Call 020 3474 6302 or book online.
In this video
Dr Sarah Sadek
Specialist Orthodontist & Clinical Director
GDC No. 114943 · Chelsea · Waterloo · Croydon