"Temporary" plastic retainers vs "permanent" metal retainers?

[AlexT]

This is the question.

I've got my braces off after more than 3 years of wearing them (I'm currently 16, born in 21 feb 1995). Since my father wasn't that jolly of the results and the costs of a permanent retainer, he decided to change the orthodontist (we have a friend who is a dentist.).

Since my ex orthodontist couldn't put me metal permanent retainers, she decided to put me what I think that they could translate as "temporary plastic retainers".
I've been told by my ex that I could use them instead of the metal ones.
Now, what I mean is that they are some transparent, plastic covers which I wear at night only (did wear them in the first 3 days at all the time, except meals tho.) and what I'm asking is:

Is it really necessary to put those metal retainers? What are the side effects if I use them, and what are the side effects if I use these transparent ones? How much time will I use the metal ones?

I really hope I ain't silly. I just wanna know if it's really worth getting the permanent ones, since somehow I can't comprehend what the difference might be in the long term. I somehow doubt I will end up having perfect teeth at 40 years, or even 30. It's just that I'm a regular Joe, not a dude trying to look like Brad Pitt.

[coconut]

I can only speak of my own experience with both forms of retainer.

There are no side effects with either. In my case I get tartar build up around the bonded (fixed) retainers, but nothing a 6 monthly cleaning by my dentist can't address. My plastic retainers are looking a bit scruffy these days, but have not lost their shape and still do the job.

If you have concerns, I'd be asking an orthodontist.

And for what it's worth, I think Brad Pitt has veneers.