A bonded retainer, also known as a permanent retainer, is a type of metal retainer wire that is glued to the back of your teeth. They are typically placed on the lower teeth from canine to canine, but are also placed behind the upper teeth in certain situations. Although they are not permanently glued to your teeth, you will often them referred to as "permanent retainers." The reason for that is because bonded retainers are not removable by the patient. However, they can always be removed by a dental professional. With a little polishing of the glue that holds the wire in place the bonded retainer can be removed, leaving the tooth enamel in a healthy condition.
Bonded retainers have the advantage of remaining in place day and night without any cooperation from the patient beyond keeping them clean. They can't be forgotten and parents don't need to ask their kids if they are wearing their retainers. Most importantly, bonded retainers are placed on teeth that typically move out of place quickest and most often.
Although the bonded retainers are the best way to keep teeth in place, they are also the most challenging to keep clean. Regular dental cleanings is a great way to maintain hygiene around bonded retainers and is a great solution for most patients. Another disadvantage that happens from time to time is the retainer wire becomes unglued and the wire becomes irritating to the patients tongue.