Hawley retainers are a tried and trusted method for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. The retainers are made of plastic or acrylic and fit neatly and comfortably against the roof of the mouth or behind the lower teeth. They are held in place with a thin metal wire that runs across the front teeth.
Hawley retainers are a popular choice with orthodontists and patients as they’re highly effective and very durable. As they are custom-made for each patient, Hawley retainers are comfortable to wear and provide a secure fit, so you can be confident your retainer won’t slip out of place. Another plus point for Hawley retainers is that they are fully removable, so you can eat as normal, and it doesn’t hinder oral hygiene.
Pros of Hawley Retainers
Extremely Durable
One of the greatest advantages of Hawley retainers is their durability. They are made from high-quality materials that are strong and robust. While of course, you should take good care of your retainer, we know that everyday life can sometimes get in the way of that. But with Hawley retainers, you have peace of mind that your retainer is well-made and strong enough to cope well with minor mishaps.
Good Lifespan Expectancy
Some types of retainers have a tendency to crack over time, but Hawley retainers are made from acrylic and stainless-steel wire and don’t easily succumb to wear and tear. This means that you can use your retainer for years, without having to go to the expense of buying new retainers when they crack or wear out.
Adjustable
Unlike some other products, Hawley retainers can be adjusted. This means that an expert orthodontist, such as Dr. Durschlag of San Diego Smile Pros, can often make minor modifications if your teeth shift slightly, eliminating the need for an entire new retainer. This flexibility makes Hawley retainers excellent for long-term use.
Easy to clean
Hawley retainers are easy to clean. You simply remove them, brush them with toothpaste, or soak them in retainer cleaner. Simple. Being removable, you don’t have the issues that can occur with permanent retainers, such as trapped plaque and the need to use special flossing tools. Hawley retainers allow for better overall dental hygiene.
Cost-Effective
While Hawley retainers are not the cheapest option, in the long run, they can work out to be a cost-effective choice due to their durability and longevity. While other retainers can crack and may need replacing due to wear and tear or due to tooth movement, Hawley retainers are long-lasting and adjustable, eliminating the need for regular replacements.
Cons of Hawley Retainers
Aesthetic Concerns
One downside to Hawley retainers is that the thin metal wire running across the teeth is visible when speaking or smiling. For individuals who prioritize visual appearance, clear retainers may be a better option as they are virtually invisible.
Initial Discomfort and Speech Challenges
Like most dental appliances, Hawley retainers come with an adjustment period. Some users experience a few days of discomfort or soreness when wearing a new retainer. Additionally, speech can be temporarily affected, and the wearer may have a slight lisp for a while. However, most patients adapt within a few days, but it may take a little longer for some.
Risk of Loss and Damage
Hawley retainers can be taken out, and while this is great for eating, it also means they can be lost. And while these retainers are robust, they’re not indestructible, so they’re also at risk of being damaged if not properly taken care of. For instance, it’s not unusual for patients to lose their retainer because they’ve wrapped it in a napkin while eating. This is easily avoided by keeping your retainer in a protective case, in a safe place when you’re not using it, but if you’re particularly forgetful or accident-prone, you may want to look at permanent retainers as an alternative.
Hawley Retainers vs. Other Types
| Feature | Hawley Retainers | Clear Retainers (Essix, Vivera) | Fixed Retainers |
| Durability | Long-lasting (5-10 years) | Can crack over time. We use Zendura, the strongest plastic on the market and rarely have cracks (3-5 years) | Bonded but can eventually break (7-10 years +) |
| Aesthetic Appeal | Visible metal wire | Nearly invisible | Hidden behind teeth |
| Adjustability | Can be adjusted | No adjustments possible | Not adjustable |
| Hygiene | Easy to clean | Easy to clean | Harder to clean |
| Cost | Moderate | Moderate | Higher initial cost |
FAQs on Hawley Retainers
How long should I wear my Hawley retainer?
Most orthodontists recommend wearing a retainer full-time for a few months after braces, then transitioning to half the day and eventually nighttime wear indefinitely to prevent teeth from moving out of alignment.
Can I eat with a Hawley retainer in?
It’s highly recommended to remove your retainer while eating to avoid food becoming trapped, increasing the risk of plaque buildup and bacterial growth.
How do I clean my Hawley retainer?
Hawley retainers are easy to clean using a toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste, but be sure to avoid using hot water, as this can warp the acrylic. Soaking in a retainer cleaner can help remove stains and bacteria, but only for the amount of time per the cleaner’s instructions.
What should I do if my retainer feels too tight?
Tightness may indicate that your teeth have shifted. Contact your orthodontist as soon as possible to see if an adjustment is needed. Minor adjustments are possible with Hawley retainers, so it may not mean you need a new retainer.
Can Hawley retainers break?
Yes, Hawley retainers are one of the more durable options, but they are not indestructible. Be sure to store them in a protective case and avoid dropping or stepping on them.
Are Hawley retainers better than clear retainers?
There are pros and cons for each type of retainer, it’s all down to personal preference. Hawley retainers are durable and can be adjusted, but clear retainers are less noticeable and may be more comfortable for some patients.
Could Hawley retainers work for you?
Choosing the type of retainer that will work best for you depends on your needs. If durability and adjustability matter more than aesthetics, they are a solid choice. However, if visibility is a concern, clear retainers might be preferable. An experienced orthodontist like Dr. Matthew Durschlag will be able to advise you about your options and help you make an informed choice.
San Diego residents can depend on Dr. Durschlag from San Diego Smile Pros to deliver the highest-quality orthodontic treatment. Dr. Matthew Durschlag is a board-certified orthodontist with a wealth of experience and a whole host of happy clients with beautiful smiles. His specialist skills ensure the successful treatment of even the most complex conditions, including all types of orthodontics, Invisalign, clear and metal braces, lingual braces, TADs (temporary anchorage devices), fixing open bites, crowding, overbites, surgical cases, and more!
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