Braces off? Check. Straight smile? Check. The final step in preserving your amazing result? Wearing your retainer as directed.
Your retainer spends a lot of time in your mouth, and just like your teeth, it can accumulate bacteria, plaque, and tartar. So, it’s incredibly important to make sure you are keeping it clean.
Why Cleaning Your Retainer is Non-Negotiable
Your mouth is home to hundreds of species of bacteria. When you wear your retainer, these microorganisms, along with saliva and food particles, create a sticky film called biofilm on its surface. Just like on your teeth, if not removed, the biofilm will harden into plaque and eventually tartar.
A retainer covered in plaque and tartar can lead to:
- Bad Breath: Bacteria release foul-smelling sulfur compounds, causing persistent bad breath.
- Stains: The retainer itself can become yellowed and cloudy.
- Increased Risk of Cavities and Gum Disease: A dirty retainer continuously exposes your teeth to excess bacteria.
- Damage to the Retainer: Mineral buildup can warp or damage the appliance over time.
Making retainer cleaning a daily habit is the best way to keep both your smile and your appliance in pristine condition.
Your Daily Cleaning Routine
When it comes to cleaning your retainer, consistency is key. The best way to prevent buildup is to clean your retainer every single day. This simple routine only takes a minute or two.
Rinse First
As soon as you take your retainer out of your mouth, rinse it with lukewarm water. This washes away fresh saliva and any loose particles before they have a chance to dry and harden.
Brush Gently
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush (separate from the one you use for your teeth), gently brush all surfaces of your retainer. You can use a mild, non-abrasive soap, like castile soap or a clear, unscented dish soap.
Rinse Thoroughly
After brushing your retainer, rinse it completely with lukewarm water to wash away all soap residue. Don’t rush this step!
Air Dry
Before storing your retainer in an enclosed case, let it air dry completely on a clean surface. Storing a wet retainer creates a moist environment where bacteria and even mold can thrive.
This cleaning routine should be done at least once a day. A great time to do it is while you are brushing your own teeth in the morning.
Deep Cleaning Your Retainer
In addition to daily brushing, a weekly deep clean can help dissolve any stubborn buildup and keep your retainer exceptionally fresh. Several effective methods can be used.
- Denture or Retainer Cleaning Tablets: These effervescent tablets are specifically designed to clean oral appliances. But check with your orthodontist first.
- Peroxide Solution: For an easy, inexpensive alternative, you can create a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and lukewarm water. Soak your retainer for about 20-30 minutes, then gently brush and rinse.
- Ultrasonic Cleaner: These handy little machines thoroughly clean oral appliances using sound wave technology.
After any deep cleaning soak, always remember to brush the retainer gently and rinse it completely before placing it back in your mouth or storage case.
What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Retainer
Using the wrong products or methods can permanently damage your retainer. Be sure to avoid these common mistakes:
Toothpaste: Most toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients that are great for tooth enamel, but will scratch the softer acrylic or plastic of your retainer. These tiny scratches create more surface area for bacteria to hide and grow.
Don’t Use Hot or Boiling Water
While it might seem like a good idea to use hot water to clean or sterilize your retainer, high temperatures can warp and distort the plastic. As a result, it may cause it to no longer fit properly. Always use cool or lukewarm water when washing your retainer or any oral appliance.
Harsh Chemicals
Harsh chemicals like bleach, alcohol-based mouthwash, and other strong household cleaners are not a good idea. Not only do you not want to accidentally ingest them, these cleaners can degrade the material of your retainer, causing it to become brittle and discolored.
The Dishwasher
The dishwasher may seem like an easy way to get out of the work of cleaning your retainer, but refrain from this potentially destructive “hack.” The high heat and harsh detergents of a dishwasher can ruin your retainer. Stick to manual cleaning.
Don’t Forget the Case!
Your retainer case also needs regular cleaning. It can become a breeding ground for germs that can easily transfer back to your clean retainer. Once a week, scrub the case inside and out with soap and warm water, or run it through the dishwasher if it is dishwasher-safe.
Have Questions About Your Retainer?
If you’ve noticed significant buildup on your retainer or have any questions about its care and maintenance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
