Whether you wear removable retainers or permanent retainers, keeping them clean is a big part of protecting your oral health, especially after a dental procedure.
Just like your teeth, retainers need regular cleaning to stay fresh and hygienic. Not doing so can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, potentially staining your teeth, damaging your smile, and leaving you with bad breath.
But don’t worry – you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll discuss our top tips for keeping your retainer clean so you can smile with confidence for years to come. Let’s get into it.
Key Takeaways: –
No matter what type of retainer you have, brushing your teeth isn’t the only part of your daily routine that needs attention! Here’s how to keep your removable Hawley and Essix retainers clean and fresh throughout the day.
After each meal, simply rinse your retainer with warm water to remove any loose food particles. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Next, use a soft toothbrush (different from your regular toothbrush) to gently scrub all surfaces of your retainer, getting rid of any plaque and bacteria buildup. Try to avoid harsh chemicals, like those found in regular toothpaste, as they can damage the retainer over time.
For an extra retainer clean, you can add a small amount of unscented, mild dish soap to your lukewarm water when brushing. Just make sure you rinse everything thoroughly afterwards to remove any lingering soap suds.
While some online resources mention using white vinegar for odour control, it’s generally not recommended. Vinegar can be too harsh and potentially damage your retainer – if you’re struggling to remove a bad smell, give us a call, and our dentists will be able to find the cause of the problem.
Daily cleaning is the best way to keep your retainers clean. But as an added measure, we recommend a deeper clean once or twice a week. Here are some of our best methods:
These readily available tablets are specially formulated for retainer cleaning. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for soaking your retainer in the recommended solution. These tablets are convenient and effective at removing plaque and killing dangerous bacteria.
Baking soda is a natural cleanser with mild antibacterial properties, making it a perfect cleaning solution for retainers. Create a paste using equal parts baking soda and water. Gently brush your retainer with the paste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, focusing on areas with visible buildup, before rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Other options include denture cleansers and soaking your retainer in mouthwash, but use them with caution. The harsh chemicals in some denture cleansers or mouthwashes can damage your retainer over time. If you choose this method, choose a mild denture cleanser and be sure to follow the soaking time recommendations. Never use denture cleansers longer than instructed, and rinse your retainer thoroughly afterwards to remove any residue.
If you wear retainers, whether they’re permanent or removable, proper care is a must. From keeping harmful bacteria at bay to protecting your retainers from damage, a strong cleaning routine will make sure everything stays in great condition.
Struggling to find the best cleaning method for your retainer, or can’t seem to get rid of a smell? Give us a call. Our private dentists in Leeds have helped thousands of people stay on top of their retainer cleaning routines – we’ll work with you to protect your oral health.
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Dental Design | Site last updated: December 2024 