When it comes to maintaining that beautiful, straight smile you worked so hard to achieve with braces or clear aligners, retainers are absolutely essential. They’re not just an afterthought; they’re a critical part of your orthodontic journey. Without them, there’s a real risk your teeth could gradually shift back to their original positions, undoing months (or even years) of progress.
In recent years, the rise of direct-to-consumer dental care has made accessing high-quality retainers easier and more affordable than ever. Whether you’ve lost your old retainer, need a backup, or are getting your very first one post-treatment, you no longer have to schedule in-office visits or pay steep prices to get what you need. Now, you can simply order a custom retainer online, made to fit your teeth precisely, using an impression kit you can use at home.
But with so many brands available, each offering different features, pricing, and customer experiences, it can be hard to know which one to choose. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide. Below, you will find a side-by-side comparison of some of the top online retainer brands to help you find the best option for your budget, lifestyle, and smile care needs
Types of Retainers You Can Buy Online
If you’re shopping for a retainer online, it is helpful to know your options. While retainers may all serve the same basic purpose, i.e., keeping your teeth in place after orthodontic treatment, they come in different styles, each with its own set of benefits. Let’s break down the most common types you’ll come across when ordering online.
1. Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix Style)
These are by far the most popular retainers you’ll find online. Made from a transparent plastic material, they fit snugly over your teeth, just like clear aligners, and are virtually invisible when worn.
2. Wire Retainers (Hawley Style)
These are the classic retainers you might remember from the orthodontist’s office, a kind of metal retainer that is a combination of an acrylic base and a thin metal wire that goes across the front of your teeth. Believe it or not, you can now order these online from select providers.
3. Nighttime Retainers / Dual-Purpose Options
Some companies offer retainers specifically designed for night use, sometimes even with added protection if you grind your teeth in your sleep. These are often a bit thicker than regular clear retainers and can double as night guards.
What to Consider Before Ordering a Retainer Online
Before diving into the top brands, it is important to understand what makes a good retainer, especially when you are ordering without a direct visit to the orthodontist.
Here are a few key features to keep in mind:
Type of retainer
Some brands offer clear plastic retainers while others provide traditional wire options. Consider which type of retainer you need before ordering.
Material quality
A good retainer should be durable, BPA-free, and safe for long-term use.
Price and value
Do not only go for the affordability. Look for brands that balance affordability with quality.
Impression process
Most online companies will send you an at-home impression kit, making it easy to create a custom-fit retainer from home.
Customer support
Easy communication and responsive help can make a big difference in making the impressions and getting the customised retainers, especially if it’s your first time ordering.
Delivery and replacement options
Look for the brand that offers fast shipping, replacement options, a guarantee, and the ability to reorder with ease..
Top Retainer Brands You Can Order Online
Let’s take a closer look at some of the top-rated and user-favourite retainer brands currently available online.
1. ALIGNERCO
ALIGNERCO has earned a reputation for affordability and simplicity without compromising the quality of both aligners and retainers. Their clear retainers are designed to hold your teeth in place without drawing attention, ideal for anyone who prefers a low-profile solution.
- Types Offered: Clear plastic retainers (Essix-style)
- Impression Kit: Included with your order
- Price: Competitive and budget-friendly
- Best For: Budget-conscious users who want a reliable, no-fuss option
Pros:
- Clear, discreet, custom-fi,t and quality design
- Easy at-home impression process
- Free shipping options available
Cons:
- Limited to one type of retainer (no metal options)
2. SportingSmiles
SportingSmiles is a long-time player in the dental product space, offering a range of retainers and mouthguards. They’re best known for their variety.
- Types Offered: Essix, Hawley (wire), dual arch options
- Impression Kit: Yes, shipped to your home
- Price: Mid-range, depending on the retainer type
- Best For: People who want multiple options and higher durability
Pros:
- Wide selection of retainer types
- Good replacement deals for returning customers
- Custom-fit and dental lab-crafted
Cons:
- Slightly higher price point for wire retainers
3. Aligner32
Aligner32 offers retainers as part of its comprehensive aligner treatment plans, but you can also purchase them separately. Their clear retainers are made with comfort and flexibility in mind, ideal for both day and night use.
- Types Offered: Clear retainers
- Impression Kit: Yes, provided at home
- Price: Reasonably priced with occasional bundle offers
- Best For: All-day wearers looking for a snug, invisible fit
Pros:
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Easy ordering process
- Good customer support
Cons:
- Retainers are currently available in clear style only
4. ClearClub
ClearClub combines convenience with long-term planning. They offer both single-purchase retainers and a subscription model, which is ideal if you tend to misplace or wear out your retainers over time.
- Types Offered: Clear plastic retainers
- Impression Kit: Yes, included with your initial order
- Price: Slightly above average, but offers recurring delivery options
- Best For: Those who prefer set-it-and-forget-it subscriptions
Pros:
- Convenient subscription model
- BPA-free materials
- Offers discounts on multiple sets
Cons:
- Longer delivery time compared to others
5. Retainers Direct
Retainers Direct operates on a lab-direct model, cutting out the middleman. This allows them to offer professional-grade retainers at lower prices while still ensuring a high-quality fit.
- Types Offered: Clear retainers
- Impression Kit: Yes, shipped promptly upon ordering
- Price: Affordable
- Best For: Fast, affordable replacements without dentist visits
Pros:
- Direct-to-lab model keeps prices low
- Fast processing and shipping
- Easy reordering for future retainers
Cons:
- Limited product range (no metal options)
Comparison Table: Quick Snapshot
Here is a quick comparison of the options available for you in the market:
| Brand | Price Range | Impression Kit | Types Offered | Best For |
| ALIGNERCO | $125 | Purchased Separately or Included in the purchase | Clear Essix-style | Budget-conscious users post-aligners |
| SportingSmiles | $140 | Purchased separately or included in kit | Clear Essix & Essix Plus | People who prefer variety plus affordability |
| ClearClub | $164 | Included with subscription or one-time buy | Clear Essix-style | Long-term retainer wearers with convenience |
| RetainerDirect | $139.99 | Included with all orders | Clear Essix-style | Quick replacement, reliability |
| Aligner32 | $145 | Can be purchased separately, also included in the purchase | Clear Essix-style | Affordable, fast, and beginner-friendly |
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Online Retainer Brand
Keeping your teeth in place after orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Thanks to the growing number of trusted direct-to-consumer dental brands, you can now order high-quality, custom-fit retainers from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly solution or a subscription model that takes the hassle out of remembering replacements, there’s something out there for everyone.
The best retainer for you will depend on your specific needs, lifestyle, and how much convenience matters to you. If affordability is key, ALIGNERCO or Aligner32 are great go-to options. If you want variety, SportingSmiles is worth considering. For those who like the idea of planning ahead, ClearClub’s subscription model might just be the perfect fit. And if you’re simply in need of a reliable, quick replacement, RetainersDirect delivers excellent value without the fuss.
No matter which brand you go with, the most important thing is consistency. Wearing your retainer as recommended and replacing it when needed will help you protect the investment you made in your smile for years to come.
Reference:
The Healthline Editorial Team. (2018, May 29). What to know before you get a retainer. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/retainer-types
