Clear vs. Hawley vs. Permanent Retainers: Which One Fits You Best?
You're probably here because you're deciding which retainer is right for you after braces. Maybe you're thinking: Which fits my lifestyle? Which works with my budget?
With so many options — Hawley, permanent, and clear retainers — picking the wrong one could cost you peace of mind, money, and even your teeth alignment.
In this blog, we'll explain why retainers are important, compare the three types, and show how ClearClub can help you choose the right one.
Do You Really Need a Retainer After Braces? Here's Why
Wearing a dental retainer after braces is important. It keeps your teeth in their new alignment and helps them be accustomed to their new position. Your dentist might recommend wearing it full-time for a few months before moving to just night-time use. According to Healthline, this transition usually takes 4 to 12 months. Skip it, and you risk shifting teeth, an ill-fitting retainer, and painful setbacks.
Wondering if your retainer pain is just adjustment or a red flag? Find out here: Retainer Pain Explained: What's Normal, What's Not, and How to Fix It
Comparing Clear, Hawley, and Permanent Retainers: Which is Best?
Thanks to advancements in dental technology, two or more types of retainers have been introduced alongside the traditional Hawley. Today, clear plastic and permanent retainers rival the Hawley in effectiveness, durability, affordability, and comfort. Let's take a look at their differences below:
Clear Plastic Retainers
Many patients choose clear plastic retainers because they blend in with your teeth while still doing the job. They're easy to remove, made to fit your teeth perfectly, and simpler than their metal counterparts.
Different manufacturers use different materials, but most clear retainers are crafted from safe, medical-grade plastics like polyurethane or PETG. Others, like ClearClub, use a safe acrylic-based material designed for lasting quality and a gentle fit.
Clear plastic retainers also come with a number of advantages. They typically range from $100-$800, depending on the brand. Since they're removable, they won't get in the way of eating, flossing, or cleaning. The main drawback is that because they're nearly invisible, they can be easy to misplace.
If you want a detailed look at the clear plastic retainers ClearClub offers, check out Replacement Retainer: Unleash Your Perfect Smile
Hawley Wire Retainers
If you lean toward tradition, the Hawley wire retainer could be your best bet. It's removable, adjustable, and even customizable — you can choose the color of the acrylic base for a more personalized touch. The lifespan of a wire retainer is indefinite.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), a Hawley retainer has two main parts: a metal wire and an acrylic or hard plastic base that keeps it in place. On average, they cost between $150 and $600.
Compared to clear plastic retainers, they tend to be bulkier, which may affect speech and cause mild gum irritation during the first few days of wear. Also, the thin wire in front of your teeth can be slightly visible when worn.
Permanent Retainers
When it comes to subtlety, permanent retainers win. The tradeoff? Higher cost and maintenance. Bonded to the lingual (inner) side of the teeth, they can only be removed by an orthodontist and may last up to 20 years.
The Medical News Today explains that permanent retainers involve attaching a thin wire to the back of four to six teeth at the front of the mouth, either on the upper, lower, or both arches. However, it's more common for orthodontists to bond permanent retainers to the lower teeth, as upper placements are generally more fragile. In terms of pricing, they usually cost $225-$550.
Permanent retainers offer the benefit of consistency — you don't have to remember to remove them before bed or meals. The nuisance is that flossing takes more effort, and you'll need to be mindful of foods that could damage the wire, since even a small break may require a dental visit.
Retainer Comparison Chart
Here's a detailed look at each retainer's pros and cons, inspired by Healthline.
| Retainer Type | Clear Plastic Retainer | Hawley Wire Retainer | Permanent Retainer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pros |
• Can be easily removed for cleaning and meals; keeps your teeth cleaner than permanent retainers • Invisible under any setting; perfect for socialization • Less bulky, doesn't affect speech unlike Hawley retainers • Easy to replace and/or duplicate |
• Adjustable if your teeth alignment shifts mid-treatment • Slightly more durable than a clear plastic retainer • Customizable acrylic color |
• Extremely subtle, bonded behind front teeth • Convenient and consistent • Durable, lasts up to 20 years if well-maintained |
| Cons |
• Requires new impressions when teeth alignment changes • May discolor if not properly maintained • Can be misplaced • Can accumulate bacteria if not regularly cleaned |
• May affect speech more than the two retainers • Metal wire is visible across front teeth • Your gums and inner cheeks may get irritated during the first few weeks • Can accumulate bacteria |
• Can contribute to the development of plaque and tartar • Can trap food and hinder flossing • May irritate tongue |
| Maintenance |
• Can be cleaned with only soft-bristled toothbrush and anti-microbial soap |
• Must be soaked daily (denture/retainer cleaner, or lukewarm water + mild soap) • Needs brushing after soaking to remove buildup |
• Requires special floss and threaders for hard to reach areas • Needs consistent brushing to avoid plaque around the wire |
| Cost | $100 - $800 (ClearClub's Retainer starts as low as $98) | $150 - $600 | $225 - $550 |
| Summary | Best for comfort, aesthetics, and everyday use | Customizable and durable but more noticeable | Set-and-forget but harder to maintain hygiene |
Wondering why ClearClub's plastic retainers cost less than most on the market? Learn the ClearClub difference here: How Much Do Retainers Cost? The ClearClub Difference
Looking for a Clear Retainer? Find Your Perfect Fit at ClearClub
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ How much does it cost to replace a retainer?
Retainer replacement costs vary by type, typically ranging from $100 to $800. Signing up for a renewal plan like ClearClub’s can make maintaining your retainers easier and more cost-effective than one-time purchases.
❓ How long do clear plastic retainers last?
Clear plastic retainers typically last 6 to 24 months, depending on how well they’re cared for. Practicing proper retainer hygiene can help yours last longer.
❓ How do I pick the right retainer?
Choosing the right retainer depends on your preferences, lifestyle, and budget. If you want a retainer that balances durability, convenience, and affordability, clear plastic retainers are the best choice for you.
Looking for something else? Check our full FAQ section.