A century of Hawley retainer

Abstract

Introduction: The use of Hawley retainer has crossed a century with same basic principles incorporated one hundred years back accompanying little improvisation in material. The innovation of Hawley retainer was a simple orthodontic appliance yet innovative device of retention of that period of time. The primitive appliance is still continuing over a century; is an achievement in itself. This clearly reflects the intense invention of an inquisitive mind of its creator, Dr. Charles Augustus Hawley. The present article reviews the chronological events of the life of Dr. Charles Augustus Hawley and his contributions to the profession. Special emphasis has been laid on the evolution, development and clinical aspects of Hawley retainer commemorating its completion of a century.