© 2020 George Warman Publications. All rights reserved. Indefinite retention is now considered essential to prevent relapse after orthodontic treatment. Compliance with removable retainer wear is suboptimal and appears to decline with time post-treatment. As a result, use of bonded retainers may become more commonplace in the future. In this narrative review, the characteristics of bonded retainers are outlined and a summary of the evidence from randomized clinical trials regarding their effectiveness is provided. Guidance is also offered regarding care and maintenance. CPD/Clinical Relevance: All general dental practitioners (GDPs) should be familiar with types of bonded retainers, evidence relating to their effectiveness and the GDP's role regarding their care and maintenance.