Retainers are orthodontic devices used to hold the teeth in position before or after braces are applied. Retainers are custom-made to fit with the profile of the patients mouth. Retainers are made from wire and plastic. Three popular retainer types are Hawley, Essix, and Fixed retainers. Hawley retainers are used after a process to close gaps in the teeth.  

Essix retainers are transparent pieces produced from a mold; they fix over the entire arch of the teeth. These two retainer types are removable. They require daily cleaning and care. Fixed retainers cannot be removed and are suggested when there is a greater chance of the teeth reverting back to their old positions after treatment.