Benefits of Hawley retainers orthodontists rave about

Looking for the most reliable way to maintain your smile? Hawley retainers are a great place to start, compared to fixed retainers these provide a much more comfortable transition from teeth straightening journey to maintenance.

In this blog, we will explore all that you need to know to decide whether Hawley retainer is the right option for you.

What are Hawley retainers?

Hawley retainers have an acrylic body and narrow metal brackets; they are more visible than clear retainers but more robust and long-lasting. It is mostly employed in the lower teeth or any dental situation that requires more rigidity.
Fun Fact: Hawley retainers are named after their inventor, Dr. Charles Hawley, who designed them to provide long-lasting results after orthodontic treatment.

Why choose Hawley retainers?

Hawley retainers offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for post-orthodontic care. Here are some key benefits:

Custom made for you

Hawley retainers are made just for you. Your orthodontist will use your dental impression to make your retainers. This makes your retainer fit perfectly into your dental structure, making your retainer experience more comfortable.

Adjustability

Minor alterations in tooth alignment can be accommodated easily with Hawley retainers. It makes sense that, like everything else, our teeth will change over time; your orthodontist can help with this. They can use the flexibility for Hawley retainers to make small changes as needed.

Durability

Hawley retainers are crafted from durable materials like acrylic and stainless steel, making them reliable for long-term use. With the right care and maintenance, these retainers can serve you for years, standing up to daily wear. Your orthodontist may recommend regular check-ups to ensure they remain in excellent condition.

Helps maintain alignment

Over time, your teeth naturally want to move, but these retainers act as a safeguard to maintain the hard work of your orthodontic treatment. Regular use, especially during the retention period, makes sure your smile stays as perfect as you left the dentist's chair.

How are Hawley retainers made and used?

Okay, so you have decided you will choose Hawley retainers to maintain your smile. What now? Where do you get them? The process of getting and using Hawley retainers involves several steps:

Post-treatment assessment

Once your braces or aligners come off, your orthodontist will evaluate your teeth to decide the best way to maintain your new smile. While Hawley retainers are a common choice for their durability and adjustability, clear retainers like those from Caspersmile are also a convenient option that can be ordered from the comfort of your home.

Customization

An impression of your teeth is taken to make a mold to create a perfect fit. This mold is used for Hawley retainers to craft an acrylic base that feels comfortable and a metal wire that aligns with your teeth.

Fitting appointment

When your Hawley retainer is ready, your orthodontist will ensure it fits well and make any necessary adjustments. With at-home retainers, you can eliminate the need for this step by delivering retainers directly to your home.

Wearing instructions

At first, you’ll need to wear your retainer all day (except when eating or cleaning). Later, your orthodontist may recommend switching to nighttime use only. If you choose clear retainers like Caspersmile’s, you’ll receive easy-to-follow instructions for optimal results without in-office visits.

Caring for your Hawley retainer

One drawback is that retainers need to be used exactly as directed to stay sturdy and effective; otherwise, they risk breaking and not working as intended. Here are some important pointers:

• You should use a soft toothbrush and a light soap or a cleaner made especially for your retainers to clean them properly.

• Food particles may adhere to your teeth and your retainers if you wear them while eating. Before putting on the retainers, wash your teeth thoroughly.

• Your retainers should be kept in a storage case when not in use.

• Due to the possibility of deformation, avoid drinking or even sipping hot liquids while wearing your retainers.

Final Thoughts

Hawley retainers are a dependable method for maintaining the outcomes of your orthodontic treatment. They can help you keep your smile flawless for many years to come. Just make sure you take good care of them and use them consistently. To keep things on track, clean your retainer every day and make an appointment for routine checkups.

FAQs

How long does a Hawley retainer last?

A Hawley retainer can last 5 to 10 years if you take good care of it. Keeping it clean and safe from damage will help it last longer.

Can I eat while wearing my retainer?

No, it’s better to take your retainer out when eating. This keeps it from getting damaged and helps you keep it clean.

Is the retainer uncomfortable?

At first, wearing a retainer might feel a little weird or uncomfortable. But after a while, your mouth will get used to it, and it will feel normal.

How often should I clean my retainer?

Clean your retainer daily to remove plaque and bacteria. This keeps it hygienic and helps it last longer.

References

Freutel NC. How to clean your retainer: tips and tricks. Forbes Health.
https://www.forbes.com/health/dental/how-to-clean-your-retainer/#:~:text=After%20taking%20it%20out%20in,open%20until%20it. Published July 10, 2023.