After orthodontic treatment, finding the right retainer can be as crucial as the braces or aligners themselves. According to the British Orthodontic Society, “retainers are fitted at the end of orthodontic treatment after the braces are removed. They can be either removable or fixed onto the teeth.” With numerous options now available online, especially from direct-to-consumer brands, selecting one that strikes a balance between comfort, effectiveness, and subtlety can feel overwhelming.

To make your decision easier, we tested the most talked-about retainers of 2025. One of them was so comfortable, we genuinely forgot we were even wearing it. Here’s our breakdown of the top contenders.

1. Cheeky – The Clear Winner for Comfort and Discretion

Cheeky stands out with its custom-fit night retainers, designed to keep teeth aligned and protect against grinding. Each order includes a free impression kit, fast shipping, and a 30-day money-back guarantee, meaning you’re able to get new retainers all from the comfort of your own home.

One of the most impressive things about Cheeky is how easy they are to wear. You may even forget you have them in – no awkward speech, no visible plastic sheen, and zero discomfort.

Backed by dental professionals, Cheeky offers dentist-approved solutions made with high-quality materials. They’re effective in reducing issues like morning headaches and jaw pain, especially for people who grind their teeth during sleep. 

If you combine the benefits of a mouth guard and retainer in one sleek design, you’ll understand why Cheeky tops our list. It’s simply the best for people who prioritize comfort, design, and subtlety.

2. Essix Clear Retainers – Standard Comfort with a Clean Look

Essix retainers are widely recognized and used by orthodontists around the world for their clear, removable design, which makes them both discreet and easy to wear. Their straightforward functionality helps to keep teeth in place while offering a visually clean look.

While they are known for their simplicity and reliability, Essix retainers typically feature a more rigid material, which can feel firm, particularly during the initial days of wear. This is a common trait in many clear retainer options and may require a short adjustment period for some users.

Despite this, Essix retainers are highly regarded in the orthodontic community.  As Diamond Braces summarizes from orthodontic studies: “There is no significant difference in the retention efficacy between Hawley and clear retainers. Both types effectively prevent teeth from shifting when used as directed.” This makes Essix a solid choice for maintaining your smile.

3. NewSmile – Convenient Retainers with Lifetime Protection

NewSmile has quickly become a trusted name in orthodontic aftercare, offering clear retainers that combine quality, comfort, and affordability. Each retainer is custom-made from high-grade, BPA-free materials, designed to be thin and discreet while still durable enough for everyday wear.

One of NewSmile’s biggest advantages is its flexible purchase options. Customers can order retainers individually or enroll in a subscription plan that automatically delivers new sets every six months. This helps ensure that retainers are always fresh, clean, and effective, since older retainers can wear down or lose their fit over time.

Subscribers also benefit from a 30-day fit guarantee and a lifetime warranty, which means replacements are provided if the retainers don’t fit properly or become defective. With prices far lower than most orthodontist offices, NewSmile makes it simple and cost-effective to protect your smile for the long term.

4. SmileSet – Convenience for Returning Customers

SmileSet offers custom clear retainers and stands out for its convenience, particularly for returning customers. If you’re a previous client, you won’t need to undergo a new scan, saving both time and money.

Manufactured in the USA, SmileSet’s retainers are delivered quickly. In terms of comfort, they perform relatively well compared to other options for longer wear. At the same time, they provide effective protection and serve their purpose. For those seeking a functional and convenient solution, SmileSet provides a solid choice for retaining dental alignment without the need for a new scan each time.

5. ALIGNERCO – Budget-Friendly but Barebones

ALIGNERCO is a popular choice for those looking to save. With their impression kit included in the price and a decent custom fit, these retainers are definitely a wallet-friendly option.

However, cost-saving does show in other areas, such as comfort. Just be prepared for a brief adjustment period. They’re an ideal option for budget-conscious shoppers who don’t mind a trade-off in comfort.

While it may not have all the advanced features of higher-end models, ALIGNERCO delivers a reliable, straightforward option for those looking to maintain their smile without breaking the bank.

Why Mouth Guards and Retainers Matter

Wearing a retainer or mouth guard isn’t just about maintaining straight teeth. It’s about protecting your entire mouth.

The American Dental Association emphasizes, “wearing a properly fitted mouthguard to reduce the incidence and severity of oral injury in sporting or recreational activities […] Mouthguard use has been shown to reduce the risk of sport-related dental injuries.”

Delta Dental adds, “A properly fit mouth guard can help minimize the impact of a concussion & other injuries to the teeth, tongue, lips, jaw, & face.”

Even the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry notes, “Mouth guards function to mitigate a blow to the face, lessening the probability of broken teeth and injuries to the jaw, lips, and tongue.”

From a retainer perspective, the consensus is clear that consistency is key.

As one orthodontist explains: “The best retainer for teeth straightening is the one that a patient is most likely to wear consistently.” That’s where Cheeky earns its crown. A retainer you forget you’re wearing? That’s the kind you’ll actually use night after night.

Real Talk: Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Retainer

Anyone who’s gone through braces or clear aligners knows how long the process takes – and how much it costs. One dental professional summed it up well: “If you paid a lot for them, then why would you want to waste the money and then not wear your retainer?”

The Australian Government Health Authority also points out that retainers prevent your teeth from shifting post-treatment. In other words, skipping your retainer might undo all that progress.

In other words, skipping your retainer might undo all the progress made with braces or aligners. A retainer is a small investment to ensure your smile stays exactly where it should be, protecting both your time and money spent on previous dental work.

Final Thoughts

After reviewing the top retainers of 2025, we learned one thing fast: the best retainer is the one you can wear comfortably night after night. If it’s uncomfortable, bulky, or awkward to wear, chances are it’s going to end up in your drawer, not your mouth.

Cheeky earned our top spot by offering a retainer that fits perfectly, feels invisible, and makes you want to stay consistent with your dental care. It checks all the boxes: discretion, comfort, convenience, and protection.

When it comes to maintaining that investment in your smile, don’t cut corners. Opt for a retainer that does the job and lets you forget it’s even there.