Hawley Retainers
What Are Hawley Retainers?
A Hawley retainer is a removable orthodontic appliance designed to maintain teeth alignment after braces or Invisalign orthodontic treatments. It consists of a metal wire that wraps around the front teeth and an acrylic or plastic base that rests against the roof of the mouth or the lower jaw. The retainer helps keep teeth in their corrected positions by preventing them from shifting over time.
Hawley retainers are custom-made for each patient and are one of the most commonly prescribed types of retainers due to their durability and adjustability. Before you deciding on whether Hawley Retainers are right for you, there are some things you should know:
- Who Needs Hawley Retainers?
- Benefits Of Hawley Retainers
- Alternative Treatments To Hawley Retainers
- How Much Do Hawley Retainers Cost?
- Steps In The Hawley Retainer Procedure
- Frequently Asked Questions About Hawley Retainers
If you have any further questions about Removable Orthodontic Retainers or other dental services offered at Atlas Dental, please contact us.
Free phone consultation
Have questions about Removable Retainers? Schedule a free phone consultation with our Toronto dentist.
5 star google reviews
Our patients love us! See for yourself why more and more people are choosing Atlas Dental for their Removable Retainers.
Removable Retainer Replacement
Need a replacement Removable Retainer made fast in Toronto? Book Online.
Who Needs Hawley Retainers?
Individuals who can benefit most from a Hawley orthodontic retainer include:
- Recent Orthodontic Patients: Whether you’ve completed treatment with braces or Invisalign, Hawley retainers are a great way to prevent teeth from shifting.
- People With Minor Tooth Movement Issues: Hawley retainers can sometimes be used for small tooth adjustments without the need for braces, such as closing small gaps or diastema between front teeth. The wire can be adjusted slightly to apply a small force to guide teeth into into better alignment.
- Growing Teenagers: Teens are particularly prone to tooth movement due to ongoing jaw development. Hawley retainers ensure stability during this critical growth phase.
- Patients Looking for a Durable, Long-Lasting Retainer: If you want a longer-lasting retainer option, a Hawley retainer is often preferred over clear retainers like Essix, which can crack or wear down over time.
- Patients Who Have Had Jaw Surgery or Orthognathic Treatment: After corrective jaw surgery, orthodontists may recommend a Hawley retainer to help stabilize teeth and ensure proper healing.
Hawley retainers can be prescribed to almost all orthodontic patients, regardless of age or the complexity of their initial treatment. If you have further questions about Removable Orthodontic Retainers, please contact us.
Benefits Of Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers offer several advantages compared to other retention devices:
- Durability: Made from high-quality materials, Hawley retainers are long-lasting and resistant to wear and tear.
- Adjustability: Orthodontists can make minor adjustments to the metal wire to improve fit and retention.
- Removability: Unlike permanent retainers, these can be taken out for eating, drinking, and cleaning.
- Better Oral Hygiene: Since they are removable, it is easier to clean both the retainer and the teeth.
- Improved Speech Adaptation: Unlike some retainers that cause speech difficulties, most patients adapt quickly to speaking with a Hawley retainer.
- Customizable Appearance: The acrylic portion of the retainer can be made in different colors and patterns to suit personal preferences.
Following your orthodontist’s post-insertion instructions regarding Hawley retainer wear and care will maximize the benefits and ensure the lasting success of your smile transformation. If you have further questions about Hawley Retainers, please contact us.
Alternative Treatments To Hawley Retainers
If a Hawley retainer is not the best option for you, consider these alternative retention solutions:
- Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix Retainers): These are nearly invisible and fit snugly over the teeth, but they may wear out faster and are less adjustable.
- Permanent (Fixed) Retainers: A thin wire is bonded behind the teeth for long-term retention, requiring special care to clean properly.
Your orthodontist will help determine the best retainer type for your needs based on your dental history and lifestyle. If you have further questions about Hawley Retainers, please contact us.
Cost Of Hawley Retainers
The cost of a Hawley retainer is $411. The codes relevant to removable orthodontic retainers in the Ontario Dental Association’s Suggested Fee Guide appear as follows:
Appliances, Removable, Retention
- 83101 – Appliances, Removable Retention, Maxillary: $232 plus lab fee ($179)
- 83102 – Appliances, Removable Retention, Mandibular: $232 plus lab fee ($179)
These fees may be covered by dental insurance plans, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage. At Atlas Dental, our fees are consistent with the ODA Fee Guide for removable retainers.
For patients without dental insurance, Atlas Dental is pleased to offer dental financing through Dentalcard. Affordable payment plans start at 7.95% for terms of 6 months to 6 years. To learn more about Dentalcard dental treatment financing, follow this link.
Steps In The Hawley Retainers Procedure
Here is the typical procedure involved in obtaining a Hawley retainer:
- Consultation: Your orthodontist evaluates your teeth and discusses retainer options.
- Impressions or Scans: A mold or digital scan of your teeth is taken to create a precise fit.
- Fabrication: Your Hawley retainers are custom-made in a dental lab.
- Fitting and Adjustment: Your dentist will try in your Hawley retainer and can adjust them for comfort and effectiveness.
- Care Instructions: Your orthodontist provides detailed guidance on wear and cleaning.
Remember that every individual’s orthodontic journey is unique, so it’s crucial to maintain regular communication with your orthodontist throughout the retention phase to ensure the best possible outcome. If you have further questions about Hawley Retainers, please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawley Retainers
- How often should I wear my Hawley retainers?
Initially, Hawley retainers should be worn full-time except during meals or oral hygiene routines. Over time, your orthodontist may recommend wearing them only at night.
- How do I clean my Hawley retainers?
Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or a retainer cleaner to keep them free of bacteria and debris. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. Please read our removable retainer post-insertion instructions.
- What happens if I lose or damage my Hawley retainer?
Contact your orthodontist immediately to have a replacement made. Avoid prolonged periods without wearing a Hawley retainer, as teeth can quickly shift.
- Can I wear my Hawley retainers if I grind my teeth at night?
Yes, but inform your orthodontist. They may recommend a more durable material or a combination Hawley retainer and night guard.
Hawley retainers are an essential investment in maintaining your smile after braces or Invisalign. If you have further questions or need assistance, contact us at Atlas Dental for expert advice. Schedule a free consultation or book your Hawley retainer replacement online today!
We also think you’ll like…
Dental Night Guard Pre-Visit Instructions
Dental Night Guard Pre-Visit Instructions What to Do Before Your Night Guard Scan Appointment Getting a custom dental night guard is an excellent way to
Fixed Orthodontic Retainers
Fixed Orthodontic Retainers What Are Fixed Orthodontic Retainers? After completing braces or other orthodontic treatments, it’s essential to maintain the new alignment of your teeth.
Dental Night Guard Post-Insertion Instructions
Dental Night Guard Post-Insertion Instructions After You Receive Your Custom Night Guard Night guards serve as a protective barrier against the wear and tear caused
Loose Permanent Retainer
Loose Permanent Retainer What Is A Loose Permanent Retainer? A permanent orthodontic retainer, also called a lingual wire or fixed retainer, is a thin wire
NTI Night Guard
NTI Night Guard What Is An NTI Night Guard? Do you wake up with headaches, jaw pain, or signs of teeth grinding? You may be
Teeth Clenching
Teeth Clenching What Is Teeth Clenching? Teeth Clenching, also known as jaw clenching, is a common condition that involves involuntarily tightening the jaw muscles, causing
