How to Clean Retainers

Proper care of your retainer is essential for maintaining oral health. Retainers, like your teeth, can accumulate plaque, bacteria, and tartar because they remain in your mouth for extended periods. If not cleaned regularly, your retainer can harbor harmful germs and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities, gum problems, and infections. Simply put, a dirty retainer can cause illness and dental issues.

To ensure your retainer stays in good condition and lasts as long as possible, follow these cleaning tips and be mindful of what to avoid.

Various Types of Retainers

Retainers are essential dental devices used to keep teeth in place after orthodontic treatment. They help maintain the new position of teeth, ensuring that the results achieved through braces or aligners are long-lasting. Retainers can be either removable or fixed, and the choice between them depends on the individual’s needs and preferences. Each type of retainer has its own benefits and considerations, and it’s important to follow the orthodontist’s recommendations to ensure the best outcome.

There are several types of retainers, each designed to suit different needs. Removable retainers are popular because they can be easily taken out for eating and cleaning. On the other hand, fixed retainers are bonded to the teeth and are particularly useful for those who may forget to wear their removable retainers regularly. The material and design of retainers can also vary, offering options for comfort, durability, and aesthetics.

The 3 types of retainers are:

• Hawley Retainers: Made of a combination of metal wires and acrylic, Hawley retainers are adjustable and can be customized to fit the mouth. They are durable and can be adjusted by the orthodontist for a better fit.
• Essix Retainers: These are clear plastic retainers that fit over the entire arch of teeth. They are nearly invisible, making them a more aesthetically pleasing option.
• Fixed (Bonded) Retainers: A thin wire that is permanently bonded to the backside of the teeth. They are excellent for keeping teeth in place without requiring daily removal and replacement.

Why It’s Important to Clean Your Retainer

Retainers, like your teeth, accumulate bacteria and food particles, resulting in plaque buildup. If plaque isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, which can lead to tooth decay and promote bacterial growth.

Both metal wire and clear plastic retainers can harbor harmful bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and MRSA. These bacteria have the potential to cause serious infections, including staph infections.

Permanent retainers, which remain in your mouth long-term, are particularly prone to collecting plaque and tartar if not cleaned regularly. This buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum damage, including receding gums and gingivitis. Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, causes swollen and bleeding gums and, if untreated, can progress to periodontitis, a severe infection that can lead to tooth loss.

How Frequently Should You Clean Your Retainer?

You should clean your retainer every day to keep it free from bacteria and plaque buildup. Just like with your teeth, daily cleaning prevents the growth of harmful germs that can lead to bad breath and oral infections. Use a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a retainer cleaner, avoiding toothpaste as it can be too abrasive. Additionally, it’s important to rinse your retainer with water after every meal to remove food particles and reduce the chance of stains.

Deep cleaning your retainer once a week is also recommended. This can be done by soaking it in a solution specifically designed for retainers or a mixture of water and white vinegar. Regular deep cleaning helps maintain the retainer’s clarity and prevents long-term damage. Keeping your retainer clean ensures it remains effective and comfortable to wear, contributing to your overall oral health.

Here are some potential issues if not cleaned properly:

• Bad breath due to bacterial buildup.
• Oral infections from harmful germs.
• Staining and discoloration from trapped food particles.
• Reduced effectiveness of the retainer.
• Potential damage or warping of the retainer.

How to Clean Plastic and Metal Wire Retainers

Cleaning both metal wire and clear plastic retainers is essential to keep them free from bacteria and buildup. Regular cleaning with gentle methods ensures that your retainer stays fresh and effective.

Toothbrush

For a quick and effective daily clean using a toothbrush, follow these steps:

1. Rinse the retainer with lukewarm water.
2. Use a soft toothbrush and a mild soap.
3. Gently scrub all surfaces of the retainer to remove any plaque or debris.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Ultrasonic Cleaner

For a thorough and convenient clean using an ultrasonic cleaner, follow these steps:

• Fill the ultrasonic cleaner with lukewarm water.
• Place the retainer in the ultrasonic cleaner.
• Turn on the device and let it run for the recommended time, usually a few minutes.
• Rinse the retainer thoroughly with lukewarm water and place it in the retainer case.

Effervescent Cleaner

Effervescent cleaners are tablets that dissolve in water to create a cleaning solution. To thoroughly sanitize your retainer weekly using an effervescent cleaner, follow these steps:

1. Fill a glass with lukewarm water.
2. Drop an effervescent cleaner tablet into the water, letting it dissolve completely.
3. Place the retainer in the bubbling solution.
4. Let it soak for the recommended time on the package to ensure deep cleaning.
5. Rinse the retainer thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Baking Soda

For a deeper clean, soak both metal wire and clear plastic retainers in a baking soda solution. However, baking soda can damage metal, so use this method sparingly for metal wire retainers.

To clean your retainer using baking soda, follow these steps:

1. Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste.
2. Use a soft toothbrush to apply the paste to the retainer.
3. Gently scrub all surfaces with the toothbrush to remove stains and odors.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Vinegar

To thoroughly sanitize and freshen your retainer using vinegar, follow these steps:

1. Mix around 5% of white vinegar and lukewarm water in a glass.
2. Place the retainer in the vinegar solution.
3. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes to kill bacteria and dissolve mineral deposits.
4. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the retainer, focusing on any buildup.
5. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

How to Clean Permanent Retainers

Cleaning permanent retainers involves brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly. As the retainers are fixed, you need to floss and brush around them to keep them clean. Make sure to pay extra attention to the retainer wires during your routine.

Using an interproximal brush can help you clean those hard-to-reach areas around your retainer. This thin, pick-like brush is ideal for getting in between spaces that a regular toothbrush might miss. It ensures a more thorough clean.

Alternatively, you can use a water flosser. This device uses a stream of water to remove plaque and debris, effectively cleaning around your permanent retainer without causing damage. Regular use of these tools will maintain your oral hygiene.

Indicators That It’s Time for a New Retainer

Recognizing when to replace your retainer is crucial for maintaining oral health. If you see yellow or white calcium buildup that can’t be removed with regular cleaning, it might be time for a new retainer.

Consistent cleaning keeps your removable retainer in good condition, but it will inevitably wear out over time. Signs that you need a new retainer include cracks, chips, or dents in the plastic surfaces.

Additionally, if the retainer feels loose, too tight, or has become warped, it’s time to visit your orthodontist. A proper fit is essential for the retainer to function effectively.

Methods and Substances to Avoid When Cleaning Your Retainer

When cleaning your retainer, it’s important to avoid certain techniques and ingredients that can cause damage. Avoid using the following:

• Hot Water: Can warp the retainer and change its shape.
• Toothpaste: Contains abrasive ingredients that can scratch the retainer.
• Bleach: Harsh chemical that can weaken and discolor the retainer.
• Alcohol-based Mouthwash: Can dry out and damage the retainer material.
• Boiling Water: Extremely hot temperatures can severely distort the retainer.

Conclusion

Taking proper care of your retainer is crucial for maintaining your oral health and ensuring the retainer’s longevity. By following the recommended cleaning methods and avoiding harmful techniques and ingredients, you can keep your retainer free from bacteria, stains, and damage. In our testing, using an ultrasonic cleaner proved to be the best option for cleaning retainers. Regularly inspecting your retainer for signs of wear and knowing when it’s time for a replacement will help you maintain its effectiveness and comfort. Prioritizing these practices will not only preserve your retainer but also contribute to overall dental hygiene, preventing potential issues such as bad breath, infections, and tooth decay.