How to Clean and Care for Your Dental Retainer

by: Janet Jolli

A healthy and bright smile is something everyone deserves! Therefore, it’s crucial to remember that cleaning your dental retainers is directly linked to your oral health.

Since your retainer is worn for several hours a day — typically eight to ten hours while you sleep — it’s no surprise that it accumulates bacteria, plaque, and food residue. When your retainer begins to develop a milky film, it’s a clear sign that plaque has built up. Over time, this plaque can transfer to your teeth, leading to tartar formation, which is a common cause of tooth decay and cavities.

Let’s explore the best ways to clean your retainer to prevent potential oral issues. These are the recommendations any orthodontist would give.

Caring for Your Removable Retainers

We’ve compiled a list of key dos and don’ts to help you properly care for your retainer. By following these guidelines, you’ll avoid many problems down the line.

Dos for Your Retainer

Clean your retainer at least once a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. For extra cleaning power, you can use unscented and mild dishwashing detergent. After brushing gently, make sure to rinse your retainer with lukewarm water.
Always rinse your retainer with lukewarm or cold water. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the retainer and affect its fit.
Use baking soda to clean your retainer. It’s a great natural cleaner that helps remove bacteria, plaque, and odors without harmful chemicals.
Soak your retainer in a 50/50 solution of 3% hydrogen peroxide and warm water. This solution kills bacteria and helps eliminate any yellowing on your retainer.
Soak your retainer in a vinegar-water mixture when hydrogen peroxide isn’t available. Vinegar works as a great alternative for cleaning.
Use commercially available retainer cleaners if you prefer not to make your own solutions. These cleaners can be found at most pharmacies.
Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps wash away food particles from your retainer and teeth.
Take care of your retainer case. Clean it regularly to prevent bacteria, dust, and dirt buildup inside.

Don’ts for Your Retainer

Avoid cleaning your retainer with disinfectant wipes. The chemicals in these wipes can damage your retainer and leave an unpleasant taste.
Never rinse or soak your retainer in hot water. As mentioned, hot water can distort your retainer’s shape, which could impact its fit and the positioning of your teeth.
Don’t soak your retainer in mouthwash. Mouthwash often contains dyes that can stain your retainer.
Never brush your retainer with regular toothpaste, as it is too abrasive and can scratch the surface of your retainer.

Caring for Your Permanent Retainers

Since permanent retainers are attached to the back of your teeth with a thin wire, they don’t require the same cleaning methods as removable retainers. However, it’s important to take extra care when brushing and flossing your teeth to ensure plaque, tartar, and food debris don’t build up on the wire.

Conclusion

By following these simple guidelines, you can keep your smile bright and your retainer in good condition. Consistent care will maintain your retainer’s cleanliness and save you from unnecessary visits to your orthodontist. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll enjoy a healthy smile for years to come!