Taking care of your retainer is essential for a healthy mouth and a straight smile. Some effective methods for how to clean orthodontic retainers involve simple items you likely already have at home. There’s no need to buy expensive cleaners when things like vinegar and mild soap can work well.
In this blog, we’ll show you the cleaning procedure of orthodontic retainers the right way. We discuss what you need to do and what you shouldn’t!
Ways To Clean Orthodontic Retainers: The Do’s
Your oral health could be at stake with an unclean retainer. A clean orthodontic retainer helps prevent bad breath, plaque, and bacteria. Here are the best ways to clean it:
1. Rinse After Every Use
When you take out your retainer, rinse it with lukewarm water. Similar to how you’d clean your braces. This will remove any saliva or loose debris. Remember not to use hot water since it can warp the plastic.
2. Brush Gently with a Soft Toothbrush
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub your retainer. Don’t use toothpaste as it can be quite abrasive and scratch the surface. You may use water or mild dish soap, as this is an effective way to clean it.
3. Use Retainer Cleaning Tablets
Dissolve a cleaning tablet in a cup of lukewarm water. Soak your retainer in the solution for about 15 to 20 minutes. This will help kill bacteria, and your retainer will be clean and smell fresher.
4. Soak in White Vinegar Once a Week
Mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Let your retainer soak for 15 minutes. Then rinse the retainer and brush gently. This way, you can remove plaque and mineral buildup.
5. Clean the Case Too
Your retainer case also collects bacteria, so be sure to wash it daily. Use warm water with soap. Then let it dry completely before you put it back.
Cleaning Orthodontic Retainers: The Don’ts
If you clean your retainer the wrong way, it will cause damage. Here’s what you need to avoid doing:
1. Don’t Use Toothpaste
Toothpaste can and will scratch the plastic, and once scratched, bacteria can stick to it easily. To avoid this, use mild dish soap or special retainer cleaners instead.
2. Don’t Use Hot Water
If you have plastic retainers, hot water will warp them. Always rinse and soak your retainer in lukewarm water. You can also use cool water to keep its shape intact.
3. Don’t Soak in Mouthwash
Mouthwash contains alcohol and strong chemicals. This can dry out and damage your retainer. Always use water-based cleaning methods like vinegar or retainer tablets. For more advice, talk to your dentist about it.
4. Don’t Leave It Out in the Open
Leaving your retainer out in the open allows it to collect dust and bacteria. That’s why you should always store it in a clean, dry case when you aren’t wearing it.
5. Don’t Skip Cleaning Days
Don’t get lazy with your routine. Clean your retainer every day. Even if your retainer or braces look clean, they may still have bacteria on them.
How to Clean Permanent Retainers
Permanent retainers are fixed to the back of your teeth. If you have one, use these methods to clean it:
Caring for Your Retainers with Heinrichs Orthodontics
If you’re unsure about how to clean orthodontic retainers, it’s simple. If you need tips for caring for your smile after braces or Invisalign, Dr. Heinrich and the team are here to help. We’ll guide you on proper cleaning methods.
