Teeth seem to shift more in Hawley retainers. Is this possible?

Question

Hi, I have Hawley retainers but I feel like my teeth shift _more_ in them than without them. Is this possible? My hypothesis is that the pressure from the retainers + grinding and tongue thrusting on the acrylic is causing them to move and since the Hawley doesn't cover all surfaces of the teeth, they're able to. Some movements I notice include teeth flaring and extrusion.

Brad Lockhart, DDS · Answer

You are correct in your hypothesis. Hawley retainers are NOT the most retentive of retainers. Every type of retainer has its adavantages and disadvantages from fixed retainers to Hawley retainers to Essex retainers. There can be modifications made to the typical Hawley retainer to make it more retentive and Hawley retainers are the most long-lasting, durable retainers but without question, Essex retainers are overall more retentive than Hawley retainers but Essex retainers wear out and have to be replaced.

Good luck!

Good luck!

Teeth seem to shift more in Hawley retainers. Is this possible?

Answers (1)