Cleaning Your Retainer

Cleaning your retainer is just as important as brushing your teeth. It keeps bad breath away and ensures your appliance lasts as long as possible. As you wear your retainer, bacteria from your mouth forms on the appliance, causing stains and odor, so remember to practice good oral hygiene.

How do I clean my retainer?

“When you remove your appliance to brush and floss your teeth, debris can harden onto the plastic. So, it’s important to begin the cleaning process right away. We recommend placing a small amount of mild soap on the retainer and brushing it gently with an old, soft toothbrush.”

“If you discover hard, white spots forming on your appliance, don’t panic. These calcium deposits build up over time and are easy to remove. Simply soak your appliance with a retainer cleaning tablet or solution. We also have a retainer cleaning solution that is very beneficial and will keep your retainer clean. However, cost varies depending on the brand.”

Can I use hot water to disinfect it?

Extremely hot temperatures can warp the plastic, so we recommend using lukewarm to warm water only. You should never put your appliances in boiling water or in the dishwasher. If you do, the retainer may not fit correctly, requiring you to get a replacement. Orthodontic retainers are costly, so you want to make sure to keep yours in excellent condition. You are responsible for any fees associated with a new set of retainers.

The bottom line: treat your orthodontic retainers as you would your own teeth. Gently clean them every day to keep them free from plaque buildup and erosion. Most of all, remember to wear your retainers continuously to keep your teeth in their correct positions after braces. If you have any questions, please contact our office.