Retainers for Holding Teeth

Hawley

The Hawley retainer is the traditional type of retainer. It has a visible wire in front with acrylic that contacts the roof of your mouth. It is generally more durable than the Essix retainer and should last many years if it is well taken care of.

Essix

Essix retainers have become very popular because they are clear. They are made of a thin layer of plastic that rigidly holds the teeth in place. They look very similar to Invisalign® so we often call them “Invisalign-type retainers.”

Permanent

Permanent retainers are made from a small coaxial wire that is glued in place. It is a great option for many people because it cannot be lost or forgotten. They require more diligent brushing and flossing, though. Permanent retainers are usually bonded (glued) to the front four to six teeth because those are the teeth that are most likely to move. Once your bite is aligned, the back teeth tend to stay in place better than the front teeth.