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A Hawley Retainer is a removable brace made from plastic and stainless steel wire.
This type of retainer is used to keep teeth straight after the fixed brace is removed.
Your Orthodontist will provide the retainer for use after the removal of your fixed brace.
The retainer is normally worn full time for 3 months following the removal of your brace, then nights only after this period.
You will need to wear the retainer for at least one year following the removal of your brace. Many orthodontists now recommend wearing your retainer until all growth ceases at around 22 years of age.
Your teeth will almost certainly move if you don’t use your retainer as recommended.
You should use a toothbrush and soap. Do not use toothpaste as some products can damage the plastic of the retainer. If you are cleaning the retainer over the sink, as a precaution put water in the sink in case you drop the retainer. Proprietary cleaning agents are available.
You will need to contact your orthodontist as soon as possible for a replacement.
