A teeth retainer is a custom-made device that helps keep your teeth in their new, correct position after braces. It is an orthodontic device that is used to keep teeth straight and prevent them from moving back into their previous position after braces are taken off. Retainers can be removable or permanent, and they are made of plastic or metal that is custom-made for each person. There are two general kinds of retainers: removable and permanent. Removable retainers can be wire retainers or clear retainers, while permanent retainers are made of thin, custom-fitted wire that is bonded to the tongue-side of your upper or lower teeth. Permanent retainers are sometimes referred to as “bonded” or “fixed” retainers, and they are permanently attached to the back of the front teeth. The purpose of all types of retainers is to make your alignment last for years.