I had fixed retainers and one broke so I asked to change to removable ones. I asked my dentist for Hawley retainers because, after reading into it, I found that they last longer and are cheaper in the long run and I was less likely to lose or break them as they are more visible. My dentist was fine with that and understood my reasoning so was happy to do that. One quick mould appointment and then a 15 minute visit to have them fitted and that was it. Very simple and easy. I’ve had them for about 6/7 months now and while they were a bit hard to get used to at first they feel fine now. Hardly noticeable and pretty comfortable. I hadn’t had the fixed ones for long so my dentist advised me to wear them full time for a few months which was a struggle but now just nighttime only and your situation is prob different. I would just say the same thing to your dentist if you prefer Hawley's to Essix. It is each to their own. You dentist might not offer those types though but just ask and they can advise. They are cheaper and stronger.