Hawley retainers

Hawley dental appliances are plastic or acrylic and metal devices that keep teeth in alignment following orthodontic treatment. Unlike other types of aligners, they hold teeth in position rather than shift them.

The acrylic or plastic is designed to curve up against the roof of your mouth or lie under your tongue. Molded-in clasps fit along the back of the teeth and a wire loops horizontally around the front six teeth.

Hawley retainers are fully removable, making it easy for you to maintain good brushing and flossing habits. You can also take them out when playing sports, swimming or for important photos.

The retainer’s clasps help secure your device in place, while the front wire works to prevent teeth from shifting. Since the mold is a replica of your mouth’s unique shape, your gear will fit perfectly. A custom fit makes them more comfortable for long-term wear, too.

Retainers are the final step of the teeth straightening process. It’s natural for your teeth to want to move back to their original position following orthodontic correction, so using a retainer is vital to preserving your desired results. Each patient is different, so Dr. Goldreich or Dr. Patel will tell you how often to wear your retainer.

Hawley orthodontic retainers are easy to maintain. Follow these steps to protect your teeth and your investment:

• Give it a daily cleaning: Use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste to gently cleanse your retainer each day.
• Refresh it with retainer-friendly products: Soak it in an approved solution like Retainer Brite® to help dissolve any deposits.
• Remove it to eat or drink: Take your retainer out each time you’re eating or drinking to protect against food particles and keep it intact.
• Inspect it: Look over your retainer each day for signs of wear and tear and alert your orthodontist if you see damage.
• Protect it: Keep it in a case when not in use and follow all recommendations from the Goldreich Orthodontics team.