Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining your orthodontic results, ensuring that all of the time and sacrifice that you put into your smile journey was worth it. Just as with any dental appliance, regular cleaning of your retainer is essential to keep it free from harmful bacteria, plaque, and odors. Here’s a guide from Bates Family Orthodontics on the best practices for keeping your retainers clean, fresh, and effective.
Why Cleaning Your Retainer is Important
Your retainer spends (or should be spending…) a considerable number of hours each night in your mouth, exposed to bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Without regular cleaning, these things can accumulate on the appliance, leading to:
- Bad Odors and Unpleasant Tastes: Bacteria buildup can cause an unpleasant smell or taste in your retainer, making it less desirable to wear.
- Bacterial Growth: Retainers can harbor bacteria that may contribute to oral health issues such as gum disease if not properly cleaned.
- Staining and Wear: Plaque and tartar buildup can discolor retainers over time, and abrasive particles (such as in toothpaste) used in attempt to address this can wear down certain types of retainers.
Steps for Proper Retainer Cleaning
Here are some general cleaning techniques to help keep your retainer in pristine condition:
- Daily Rinsing: Rinse your retainer under cool or lukewarm water immediately after removing it. This step helps remove saliva (which contains calcium that tends to lead to a calcified white buildup) and some bacteria, preventing these things from drying on the retainer and contributing to build-up accumulation.
- Brush Gently with a Soft Toothbrush: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of mild, non-abrasive soap (or just water), gently brush your retainer to remove food particles and surface debris. Avoid toothpaste, as its abrasives can scratch retainers, leading to easier plaque/tartar/bacteria retention.
- Soak for a Deep Clean: Periodically, it is okay to give your retainer a deeper clean by soaking it in a non-alcohol-based retainer cleaner (such as Retainer Brite) or a mixture of water and a small amount of white vinegar (1:1 ratio) for 15-20 minutes. Avoid hot water, which can warp or damage the appliance. You will want to rinse and scrub your retainer with a soft toothbrush after allowing it to soak in either of these solutions.
- Use an Ultrasonic Pod: Periodic use of ultrasonic pods, such as the Zima Pod, can offer a great additional method of removing build up that is already present from your retainers.
- Avoid Harmful Cleaning Products: Never use bleach, alcohol, or mouthwash containing alcohol to clean your retainer, as these can weaken and discolor it over time.
- Store Properly When Not in Use: When you’re not wearing your retainer, store it in its protective case to keep it safe from damage and pets (trust us, this happens a lot!). Always let it air dry after cleaning to avoid a damp environment where bacteria can thrive.
How Often Should You Clean Your Retainer?
A quick rinse after each use and a gentle brushing once daily will go a long way in keeping your retainer fresh. The deep cleaning soak/ultrasonic use can be done weekly to remove any mineral buildup and keep it odor-free.
How Long Should My Retainer Last?
With a good cleaning routine, consistent wear, and careful storage we typically expect a clear plastic retainer to last 3-5 years on average. If you are a heavy grinder, remove your retainers improperly (most common mistake is to remove by pulling down/up on the front portion of the retainer), or store them without a case, retainers are not likely to last as long. General wear and tear of retainers that have been well taken care of is actually one of the less common reasons replacement retainers are sought in our practice (more commonly due to loss, damage, or a pet attempting to wear them…).
Maintaining Good Retainer Habits
Remember, keeping your retainer clean is just as important as regular dental hygiene practices. At Bates Family Orthodontics, we’re here to answer any questions you may have about retainer care or to provide tips tailored to your specific type of retainer. Your commitment to these simple cleaning habits will help keep your retainer—and your smile—looking its best for years to come!