The Direct Bond Fixed Retainer is bonded to the lingual of the cuspids via custom contoured, direct-bond pads. These pads have a metal-mesh backing for superior retention. The carefully contoured lingual wire is routinely placed 2mm below the incisal edges (unless prescribed otherwise). Additionally, many practitioners choose to add the first bicuspids into the retentive unit (as pictured). Note: Recent research shows that it is necessary to bond each tooth individually to maintain them in their corrected position. Individual anterior teeth can be secured to the lingual wire by simply adding composite over the lingual wire.