How To Clean A Retainer
Congratulations! You have just completed your smile treatment. Whether you chose traditional braces lingual braces, or invisalign, you probably want to keep that smile looking good. The chances are that you have already received a retainer to keep your teeth in their new position. Perhaps you chose to only use a permanent wire retainer, which is okay! But if you selected a removable retainer you might be wondering; how do I clean a retainer? Don’t stress, we have you covered!
How to Properly Clean a Retainer
There are many ways to clean a removable retainer, but here is what we recommend in a step-by-step guide.
- 1. Remove the retainer at the beginning of the next day if it is a nightly retainer. It is easier to clean the debris when it is recently removed instead of waiting until prior to putting it on. If it is a daily retainer, it is best to remove and wash it after every incidence of debris build up.
- 2. Run the retainer under water for a minute and use a designated brush to remove any build up debris within the retainer. Be sure to brush both the inside and outside of the retainer surface. Using a small brush head, cotton swab, or even a paper towel can help get some of the worst build up
- 3. Run the retainer under water again to wash away any leftover debris.
- 4. (Optional) Once the debris is removed and you want to make sure all pathogens are removed we recommend using a solution with a product like retainer bright to eliminate harmful bacteria or viruses. Retainer bright also helps to keep your retainer looking invisable over time. The process is simple, add one tablet to a glass of lukewarm water and let your retainer soak in it for a couple of minutes. If you’re looking for how to properly deep clean your retainer, this is a great step.
- 5. Place your retainer in a dry, sterile space when not being used to prevent unwanted build up
- 6. Remember to always make sure your teeth are clean as well before placing your retainers back in!
Can you clean your plastic retainer at home?
Of course! Every item listed above is readily available and affordable at most grocery stores. There are no harmful chemicals or extra precautions that need to be taken for at home retainer cleaning. However, if you are experiencing issues with your retainer such as discomfort, severe discoloration, or extreme buildup, please call a professional. If you live in the Las Vegas, or Henderson area, feel free to reach out to us and schedule an appointment to see our team at Beth’s Braces!
What if I have a metal or permanent retainer?
Great question! It is just as important to properly clean your metal retainer as well to avoid potential health issues. Here are our steps to cleaning a metal retainer.
- 1. Floss, floss, floss! This is critical to individuals who have permanent retainers.The metal wire behind your teeth can create a perfect environment for buildup. This may take some practice, but you should thread your floss through the gap between your gum and the wire, then floss using a filing motion. If this is too difficult there are other options available, such as the waterpik. Waterflossers work by using the pressure created by water to tough-to-reach areas.
- 2. Once the major buildup is removed, be sure to brush and rinse your teeth afterward. Any leftover buildup has the potential to move back into the affected areas if it is not totally dealt with.
Beth's Braces: Henderson & Las Vegas’s Clear Choice
If you live in las vegas or henderson and have questions about retainer maintenance, we have you covered. Beth’s Braces will work with you to ensure that you get the right retainer to fit your smile goals and your lifestyle. Don’t hesitate to give us a call or stop by our Henderson location for service.
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