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What is a Hawley Retainer?
The main part of the appliance is the clear acrylic base, which is designed to fit inside your upper palate or around the inside of your lower teeth.
Wires, called Adams clasps, are attached to the back part of the retainer, and these fit around the back teeth. These help ensure the device remains firmly in place.
Another wire called a labial bow runs across the front teeth, back to the canines, and can be adjusted during follow-up appointments to ensure the appliance is working correctly.
How Long Must I Wear a Hawley Retainer?
Initially, you will need to wear your Hawley retainer continuously; however, you can gradually decrease the wear time as your teeth settle into place. We can advise you on when to start decreasing the wear time and, eventually, how frequently you should wear your retainers on a weekly basis.
When to Choose a Hawley Retainer?
There are several reasons for choosing Hawley orthodontic retainers, which can include:
- Durability. A Hawley retainer can last for a year with the right care, and if it breaks, we may be able to repair it.
- A normal bite.The retainer allows teeth to bite together normally, which can feel more comfortable than retainer trays.
- Adjustability. We can adjust Hawley retainers if needed.
A Hawley retainer can be a versatile and long-lasting option. We can sometimes use a Hawley retainer to straighten teeth, as it is adjustable and can accommodate any minor tooth realignments that may be needed later.
Potential Disadvantages of Hawley Retainers
There are a few disadvantages in choosing a Hawley retainer, which can include:
- Visibility. The labial bow wire running across your front teeth is slightly noticeable.
- Additional salivation.Wearing any new dental appliance can prompt the body to produce more saliva, but this side effect should decrease over time until it returns to normal.
- Speech. It may take some time to speak normally with a retainer.
There is a chance that the wires could rub on your cheeks and lips. This problem should decrease as you become accustomed to wearing your Hawley retainer. Otherwise, we can adjust it so it fits more comfortably.
How to Look After a Hawley Retainer
Eating
You must remove your retainer before eating. Leaving it in risks damaging or breaking, or the acrylic plate could discolour and stain permanently.
Additionally, the acrylic plate and wires will trap food debris and dental plaque. Without proper cleaning, the risk of oral hygiene problems increases.
How to Clean Hawley Retainers
Good oral care is essential, and in addition to brushing at least twice daily and flossing each day, you should be:
- Cleaning your retainer at least once a day using mild dish soap and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
- Soaking your retainer in a good-quality cleaning agent helps remove harmful bacteria and keeps it clean and fresh-smelling.
- Storing your retainer in the case provided when it isn’t being worn.
Additionally, avoid cleaning your retainer in very hot water, as this could cause it to distort. For the same reason, store your retainer away from direct heat that could cause it to warp.
We can provide clear instructions on caring for your Hawley retainer once you receive it. We can show you how to clean it and discuss the best tools and cleaning solutions to use.
Be sure to bring your Hawley retainer with you to all dental checkups. We can inspect its condition and, if it has any cracks or breaks, arrange for it to be professionally repaired or replaced.
Hawley retainers help keep your teeth in place after braces with a durable, adjustable design. Protect your new smile, schedule your consultation at NYC Dentistry Center today!
NYC Dentistry Center6 E 45th St #801
New York, NY 10017
(45th St. btw 5th Ave / Madison Ave)
(212) 518-6096