Hawley retainer after braces

A Hawley retainer has an acrylic base and a metal wire that holds teeth after braces, and it should be worn on the schedule prescribed for your case.

After orthodontic movement, bone and periodontal fibres remodel around the new tooth positions. The appliance limits unwanted movement during retention.

Clean the acrylic and wire with a soft brush and cool water, store it in its case, and never bend the wire yourself.

Arrange an orthodontic check if it no longer fits, causes a sore spot, breaks, or a tooth visibly shifts.

Ask how long to wear it, when the schedule changes, how it will be checked, and what to do after breakage.