What is the difference between Hawley and ClearBow?

A standard Hawley uses a visible metal wire across the front teeth. The ClearBow replaces that metal wire with a durable, clear PETG strap for superior aesthetics.

Can I eat with my retainer?

Generally no, but the ClearBow retainer is unique. It is designed to be durable enough for eating, which is helpful for patients using a retainer to hold a false tooth (pontic) in place.

How do I clean my retainer?

Brush gently with water and a soft toothbrush. Do NOT use toothpaste (it scratches the plastic). You can soak them in white vinegar or retainer cleaner tablets once a week.

Thomas Orthodontics | Tampa's Trusted Orthodontist

Why Do Teeth Move Back?

It's not your fault. It's biology.

Teeth Have a Memory

Even after years of braces, your teeth "remember" where they used to be and will drift back without retention.

Periodontal Ligaments

Tiny elastic fibers hold your teeth. It takes 12 months for them to "lock" into the new position.

Lifetime Insurance

We say: "Nighttime for Lifetime." Wearing your retainer while sleeping ensures your smile looks great at age 80.

The Clear Essix

The #1 Choice for 95% of our patients. Invisible, comfortable, and precise.

The Essix retainer is a clear, vacuum-formed tray that fits perfectly over your teeth. It is virtually invisible, making it the top choice for patients who want to maintain their smile without anyone knowing.

Aesthetic: Completely clear and invisible.
Comfort: Smooth plastic with no metal wires.
Protection: Acts as a light nightguard against grinding.

The Classic Hawley

The "Heavy Duty" defender. While slightly more visible than clear trays, Hawley retainers are incredibly durable and adjustable.

Extremely Durable: Can last 5-10+ years.
Adjustable: Dr. Thomas can tighten the wire if teeth shift.
Fun Designs: Customize the acrylic with glitter, sports logos, or neon colors.

The ClearBow™ Innovation

Love the durability of a Hawley but hate the metal wire? Meet ClearBow.

This advanced retainer replaces the front metal wire with a clear, durable PETG strap. It provides the strength of a traditional retainer with aesthetic invisibility.

Eating & Pontics

Unique Benefit: Unlike other retainers, ClearBow is engineered to be safe for eating. This is a game-changer for patients with a missing front tooth (pontic) who want to keep their smile full during meals.

Which Retainer is Right For You?

Feature	Clear (Essix)	Hawley / ClearBow
Visibility	Invisible	Visible Wire (or Clear Strap)
Durability	1-3 Years	5-10+ Years
Adjustability	None (Must replace)	Highly Adjustable
Bruxism (Grinding)	Protects teeth (wears out)	Allows natural bite settling
Fullness (Speech)	Can affect speech slightly	Can affect speech (palate)

Lost it? Broke it?

Don't wait. Teeth can shift in as little as a few days. We offer fast, affordable replacements to keep your smile perfect.

Existing Patients

For our past braces/aligner patients

Essix (Clear)

$195/arch

Hawley (Wire)

$245/arch

No Appointment Needed (Usually)
We use your Existing 3D File
Fast Pickup Available
Genuine Lab Quality Materials

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL

New Patients

Includes Retainer + Digital Wellness Scan

Essix Package

$290/total

Hawley Package

$340/total

Includes Doctor Exam
New 3D Digital Scan ($95 Fee Included)
Diagnostic Safety X-Rays
Custom Fit Guarantee

Transparency Promise: New patients receive a Comprehensive Digital Wellness Scan & Safety X-Ray for a discounted rate of $95 (Value: $350).

WARNING: Why Mail-Order Retainers Are a Dangerous Gamble

You might see ads for cheap retainers you can order from home. Here is why orthodontists strongly advise against them.

No Safety X-Rays

Mail-order companies cannot see below the gumline. Moving or retaining teeth with undetected bone loss or infection can lead to permanent tooth loss.

Inaccurate Impressions

DIY putty molds are notoriously difficult to get right. A slightly inaccurate mold results in a retainer that actively pushes your teeth out of alignment.

Zero Supervision

There is no doctor to check the fit. If the retainer impinges on your gums, it can cause recession that requires expensive surgery to fix.

Common Questions About Retainers

How long do I have to wear them?

Forever! We recommend wearing them full-time (22 hours/day) for the first 12 months after your braces come off. After that year, you can switch to wearing them every single night while you sleep for the rest of your life.

My dog ate my retainer!

This is the #1 reason for lost retainers! Dogs are attracted to the smell of saliva. Always keep your retainer in its case when it's not in your mouth. Remember: "In your face or in the case!"

Do retainers wear out?

Yes. Clear retainers typically last 6 months to 2 years depending on grinding. Hawley/ClearBow retainers can last 5-10 years. We offer affordable replacements whenever you need them.

Can I eat with them in?

Only with the ClearBow retainer, which is designed for eating (especially if you have a missing tooth). For all other retainers, remove them before eating to prevent breakage.

How do I clean them?

Brush gently with cool water and a toothbrush. Do NOT use toothpaste, as it is abrasive and will scratch the plastic, making it cloudy. You can also use denture cleaner tablets or white vinegar once a week.

What if it feels tight?

If your retainer feels tight, it means your teeth have shifted slightly. Wear the retainer full-time for a few days until it fits passively again. If it won't seat fully, call us immediately.

Does insurance cover replacements?

Typically, no. Most insurance plans cover the initial set of retainers but not replacements for lost or broken ones. However, our replacement fees ($195-$245) are very competitive.

Can I drink water with them in?

Yes, cool water is fine. Avoid hot liquids (coffee/tea) which can warp the plastic, and avoid sugary drinks which can get trapped against your teeth and cause decay.

Retainers & Replacements