Hawley retainers are removable retainers made of bendable wire and plastic or acrylic material. The wire is passed through the front of the tooth, and the plastic or acrylic part is custom-made to fit snugly in the mouth. With these retainers, you can choose from a wide variety of styles and colors. Hawley retainers are constructed to allow natural tooth contact for added comfort. It can last for a long time, if it is properly cared for. They are also easy to clean.

Clear retainers are removable retainers designed to fit your newly positioned teeth perfectly. They are usually thermoformed from clear plastic sheets. These are one of the most popular types of dental retainer, because they are virtually invisible compared to the Hawley retainer. Also, they are less bulky and less likely to interfere with your speech. However, clear retainers have a relatively short lifespan, because the plastic eventually wears out and may even crack.

Lingual wire retainers (or fixed tongue retainers) have a wire attached to the inside of the front tooth, so it cannot be seen when you smile. It is often used after you have worn clear retainers or hawley retainers. The best thing about a lingual wire is that it is a permanent retainer (sticks to the teeth) and you don’t get it out on daily basis. However, you should be sure to clean it carefully, so it doesn’t lead to plaque build-up and subsequent dental problems.