Placement of a fixed retainer : procedure and tips

The retainer wire is the ultimate safeguard of your orthodontic treatment. Once your teeth are aligned, it preserves this result day after day, discreetly and reliably. However, the placement of a retainer wire — a thin metal or advanced polymer wire — often raises questions : is it painful ? How long does it take ? How will you get used to it ? This article explains step by step the procedure for placement, the sensations to expect, and the precautions to take in the hours and days following.

What is a retainer wire ?

The retainer wire is a thin device, generally made of a flexible metal alloy or a high-performance PEEK polymer, bonded to the inner surface of the front teeth. Its role is to maintain the teeth in the position achieved after orthodontic treatment and to prevent any undesirable movement. Unlike removable aligners, it works 24/7 without any special effort on your part.

Its longevity depends on the bonding technique, the material chosen by your orthodontist, and your daily oral hygiene. To discover how long to keep a retainer wire, consult our dedicated article.

When is a retainer wire placed ?

The placement of a retainer wire takes place immediately after the active phase of orthodontic treatment, that is when the desired alignment is achieved and fixed appliances (braces or aligners) are removed. It can be done during the same appointment as appliance removal or within the first few days afterward, after checking the gum health. This early intervention “locks” the new position of the teeth during the period when the periodontal fibers— still elastic — tend to return to their initial position. The retainer wire thus acts as a permanent safeguard during the months or even years needed for the definitive stabilization of the bite.

Steps for placing a retainer wire

Before starting, rest assured : the procedure is quick (under ten minutes), completely painless, and is among the most common orthodontic procedures, mastered for several decades.

Preparation of the teeth

First, the practitioner performs a thorough cleaning of the tooth surface : removing plaque, completely drying, and isolating the area. Then an etching gel is applied. Left on for 15 seconds, this gel slightly dissolves the enamel surface; this controlled micro-etching creates a subtly rough surface, optimizing the adhesion of the composite resin.

Bonding and wire fixation

The wire, preformed by your practitioner manually or fabricated in a laboratory beforehand for greater precision, is positioned on the lingual side of the teeth. A thin layer of composite resin is applied over it, then cured with a UV light. You may feel a slight tongue discomfort for the first few days, but there is no pain. The entire process, including fixation, usually takes just a few minutes.

Immediate adjustment and check

Once the composite is cured, the practitioner ensures the wire does not interfere with your bite or your speech, and that no excess resin irritates your tongue. The fixation is immediate; you can leave calmly after a final mirror check.

[Visual] Placement of the next-generation eZtain retainer wire

Does placing a fixed retainer hurt ?

No, placing a retainer wire does not hurt. The gel acts only on the enamel surface without affecting the more sensitive deeper parts of the tooth, and the resin cures cold within seconds.

Only a temporary sensitivity or slight tongue discomfort may appear during the first hours.

How to get used to the fixed retainer ?

In the days following, your tongue will naturally explore this new element. This discomfort is normal and usually disappears within 48 to 72 hours. However, a few simple steps can significantly reduce the adjustment period :

• Prefer soft foods during the first 24 hours;
• Stay well hydrated;
• Avoid deliberately pushing or pulling the wire with your tongue.

Will you feel the fixed retainer ?

Yes, after placement you will feel it with the tip of your tongue. However, the wire is so thin (0.4 to 0.7 mm) that you will no longer notice it after a few days.

Its inner surface and lack of sharp edges limit any chronic irritation. If discomfort persists after a week, consult your orthodontist.

Although a retainer wire is barely noticeable, it remains a foreign object in your body.

That’s why at eZtain Lab, we designed a fixed retainer wire machined by robot for maximum precision.

Each wire is custom-made, micron-precise to the patient’s dental morphology, reducing the sensation of the retainer on your gums even further.

All edges are smoothed and the surface polished to ensure comfort superior to a manually bent steel wire.

Daily life after fixed retainer placement

Eating : what precautions ?

There are no specific precautions after placement, but if slight discomfort occurs, you may:

• Limit hard foods (bread crusts, nuts) and sticky foods (caramel, chewing gum) for 24 hours;
• Favor chewing with your molars rather than incisors.

Risk of plaque buildup : why stay vigilant ?

A fixed wire creates retention areas where dental plaque and bacterial biofilm can accumulate. Over time, this buildup promotes enamel demineralization, cavities, and gum inflammation that can lead to periodontitis. These complications threaten not only your oral health but also the stability of the orthodontic treatment achieved.

To counter this risk, we created eZtain®, a retainer wire made of PEEK (polyether ether ketone). Its ultra-smooth surface reduces bacterial adhesion by more than 60% compared to a classic metal wire*, thus limiting plaque formation and simplifying daily maintenance. You benefit from long-lasting protection of your teeth and gums, without changing your hygiene habits.
Machined at the micron scale, eZtain retainer wires perfectly fit the dental morphology and prevent bacterial accumulation zones. In the long term, these bacteria can be very harmful to your oral environment. Preventing their settlement preserves the health of your teeth and gums over time.

*Source : internal eZtain data, in vitro tests 2024.

Custom fit and comfort

Most traditional metal wires are hand-bent. Even for the most experienced practitioner, this adjustment takes several minutes and may leave small irregularities that can irritate the tongue or retain more plaque.

To avoid this, eZtain® polymer wires are digitally machined to micron precision in a specialized lab : the entire bending and adjustment phase is outsourced, ensuring perfect positioning at placement. You enjoy immediate comfort without the need for adjustments.

Enhanced oral hygiene

1. Brush your teeth after every meal with a soft toothbrush.
2. Use interdental brushes under the wire to remove plaque.
3. Optional : finish with a non-staining fluoride mouthwash.
4. Schedule a professional cleaning every six to twelve months.

Immediate postoperative advice

• Sensitivity : mild tongue discomfort or sensitivity is common and usually disappears within 24 to 48 hours. If necessary, a mild analgesic (such as paracetamol) is sufficient.
• Check fixation : inspect the wire in a mirror after the first brushing. If you notice a loose segment or detachment, contact your orthodontist within 48 hours for re-bonding.
• Tongue or cheek irritation : apply orthodontic wax on the rough area; if irritation persists, a quick polishing will remove excess composite.
• Monitor symptoms : gum swelling, persistent pain, or bad breath should prompt a consultation as they may indicate plaque accumulation around the wire.

FAQ

2. Can a fixed retainer be removed ?

Yes, a retainer wire can be removed, but only by a professional after confirming that it will no longer impact your teeth.

3. What to do if a retainer wire detaches ?

Do not pull on it; contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to have it re-bonded. A partially detached wire loses its effectiveness and may encourage plaque buildup.

4. Is professional cleaning necessary ?

Absolutely. A professional scaling every six months removes plaque around the wire and prevents cavities and gum inflammation if your retainer wire is not made of polymer.

5. Is the wire compatible with teeth whitening ?

Yes, you can whiten your teeth, but the composite resin will not change color; your practitioner can replace it after treatment if needed.

Ready to learn everything you need to know before having your retainer wire placed ?
Discover our complete guide to retainer wires and benefit from expert advice for a lasting and comfortable smile.