At Kirti Tewari Dental PC in Bronx, New York, Dr. Kirti Tewari offers oral retainers to keep your smile aligned after your braces are removed. Today we will talk just a little bit about Hawley retainers.
Dr. Kirti Tewari commonly prescribes a Hawley retainer for people who have just had their braces removed. This is a thin piece of acrylic molded to the shape of the roof of your mouth. It is removable, but while it’s in your mouth it will be held in place by sturdy wires that interlock with your teeth.
While the retainer is in your mouth, you can drink and speak normally. However, you will need to take it out when you eat. This prevents food particles from getting trapped under the retainer and it keeps the appliance from being bent or damaged.
When you’re not wearing the retainer, you should always keep it in its case. It’s best to get in the habit of keeping the case with you at all times. Keeping the retainer in a napkin or plastic bag should only be seen as a last resort, as it is easy to throw it out if it is in a temporary holder.
You can refresh your Hawley retainer by soaking it for a few minutes in a mixture of one-half antiseptic mouthwash and one-half cold water. If you notice a little plaque on the retainer or the wires, you can lightly brush it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste.
If you have questions about how to clean and maintain your new Hawley retainer, you can always call Kirti Tewari Dental PC at 718-547-7570 for further advice from Dr. Kirti Tewari and our team.