Types of Retainers

Clear Retainers

Popular, thin, comfortable, and inexpensive.

We provide clear retainers for most of our patients in Wausau and Antigo, Wisconsin, at the end of their treatment. They are thin, transparent trays that fit directly over the teeth, closely resembling an Invisalign® aligner. Clear retainers are inexpensive, convenient, and virtually invisible when worn, which makes them a popular choice for our adult orthodontic patients. Always remember to brush your retainer anytime you take it out of your mouth or before putting it in.

Removeable Hawley Retainers

The old standby (and still effective), they’re what you picture when someone says “retainer.”

The Hawley retainer is composed of a molded piece of acrylic, cast to match the contours of your mouth, with an array of metal wires protruding from it designed to hold the teeth in place. It’s the most common option for retention and likely what first comes to mind when you think of the word “retainer”.

Hawleys are convenient, removable, and effective, but you’ll need to always remember to brush your retainer anytime you take it out of your mouth or before putting it in.

Bonded Retainers

Bonded retainers, also called fixed retainers, are usually used for orthodontic patients in Wausau and Antigo who have a high risk of tooth regression. These retainers are made from a single metal wire that’s cemented directly to the teeth, usually running across the backside of the lower front teeth.

Fixed retainers are convenient and highly effective in that they stay in all the time, but you will need a floss threader to properly perform oral hygiene. If your bonded retainer ever does start to come loose, simply contact our office to schedule a repair appointment.

Bonded retainers will always require the use of clear retainers too, as they only hold the front 4-6 teeth. Not everyone is a candidate for a bonded retainer, so let us help advise you of your options.

Which Retainer Do I Need?

Let us help you find out when you book a free consult.

In Their Own Words: Patient Reviews

“I have had such a great experience myself with Dr. Dovorany and his staff that I recently started my daughter’s treatment with them. My daughter is very nervous and self-conscious, and they have all made her feel welcome and comfortable. Always greet us by name as we walk in! Always genuinely interested in their patients.”
Nikki P.
“This place came highly recommended by friends, so we decided to give it a try. Did not disappoint. Clean and comfortable waiting area. They are so personable and professional and welcome parent involvement. Thank you for making this such a great experience!”
Trina L.
“All three of our girls received their ortho treatment here. Super nice and friendly staff. Even with all the people that come here, they still seem to know our names and faces and greet us accordingly. Love it here. And our results are fabulous!”
Carrie W.
“I had to get braces due to an open bite. Thankfully, my issue has been resolved after a year of wearing braces. Dr Dovorany and his team have been great and I would definitely recommend them. Great customer service and I’m glad that my issue was able to be resolved without surgical intervention.”
Mai V.
SERVING ROTHSCHILD, SCHOFIELD, WESTON, MOSINEE, MARSHFIELD & SURROUNDING AREAS

Your Trusted Wausau & Antigo, Wisconsin Orthodontist

Dovorany Orthodontics – Wausau

1405 Kenwood Dr., Wausau, WI, 54401-2949

Dovorany Orthodontics – Antigo

438 Edison St., Antigo, WI, 54409-1845