They may be able to provde a clear acrylic retainer for your child to wear instead of leaving in a metal bar. They used to just give you a night retainer to wear for a few years after braces were removed anyway. And not all orthodontist use a metal bar either. I am not sure titanium is any better. Read the info at the link Russ provided on titanium. Basically, it doesn't look to be any better. The main function of the bar is to keep their teeth from shifting back, right? I don't see what a retainer couldnt' do the same thing. As long as you child wears it the recommended time. Never hurts to ask! Ask them what else they can offer!