What Kind of Retainer After Braces is Better, Clear Plastic or Wire?

I have worked extensively with both types of retainers and I have found that clear retainers retain better. I will always try to use clear retainers but sometimes they are not the best choice for a given patient. Minor tooth movement can also be accomplished with clear retainers to correct minor relapses.

Ultimately, compliance is the key.  Clear trays allow usage at all times of the day, wires tend to be worn only at night.  Nothing works 100% of the time and you will hear arguements for each style.  Wires do allow some modification that clear aligners do not.

There is no right answer.

All retainers are effective, wire retainers are more durable, clear retainers are more cosmetic and fixed retainers are permanently cemented behind the teeth. It is easily possible to add springs to the wired retainer to realign the teeth that have moved.