Hawley retainers

Hawley retainers are the original retention device. A removable Hawley retainer is a combination of a hard plastic or acrylic plate molded to fit your mouth comfortably. A wire is positioned against the front of your top teeth to keep them in place.

A Hawley dental retainer is usually comfortable to wear, easy to use and effectively protects your new smile for as long as you are directed to wear it. According to a recent study from the National Institute of Health, 90% of orthodontists prefer the Hawley retainer for use with a maxillary dental arch.

Hawley dental retainers are made and molded to fit each patient’s mouth specifically. These retainers use a metal wire to hold the six anterior teeth in place while the acrylic or plastic arch is held against the roof of your mouth. The retainer prevents these teeth from moving back into their original positions after corrective orthodontic treatment.

Hawley Retainers only work once a patient has completed a process of braces or Invisalign® clear aligners to straighten their teeth. These retainers are usually worn for six to nine months, depending on your orthodontist, though most patients tend to wear some form of retainer for the rest of their lives to prevent their teeth from moving back.

A vital part of any orthodontic treatment plan is caring for your orthodontics. You can easily take care of your Hawley Retainer as part of your daily hygiene routine:

• You should clean your retainer daily by brushing it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
• If your retainer has plaque buildup, you can soak it in a mixture of one-half antiseptic mouthwash and one-half cold water.
• Avoid hot temperatures to prevent your retainer from changing shape and not fitting in your mouth correctly.
• Remove your retainer while eating, drinking anything but water, and brushing your teeth so you can clean your teeth properly before placing the retainer back in.
• When your retainer isn’t in your mouth, keep it in a safe place like its case.