How to Clean a Retainer: 5 Ways to Clean Plastic Retainers
Patients who undergo any type of orthodontic treatment in Markham still need to take care of their teeth afterward. This is especially true for those who have to wear retainers. Retainers come in both wire and plastic varieties. We will discuss the best ways how to clean a retainer—the ones made of plastic to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful.
Tips on How to Clean a Retainer
#1 – Clean it with mild soap.
The first way on how to clean a retainer is by using a mild soap. First, remove your retainer and rinse it off with water. Next, create a soapy solution using warm water and mild soap. Gently soak the retainer and wash it with your hands. You can also use a toothbrush to brush away any plaque or food particles. Finally, rinse off the soap with water and allow the retainer to air dry.
#2 – Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush.
If you prefer not to use soap on how to clean a retainer, you can simply use water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Wet the toothbrush and run it along the retainer to remove any plaque or food particles. Be sure to brush all surfaces of the retainer, including the wires if it’s a wire retainer. Rinse off the retainer with water and allow it to air dry.
It’s important not to use a hard-bristled toothbrush, as this can damage the retainer.
#3 – Use orthodontic or denture cleaner.
Orthodontic or denture cleaner is another efficient way on how to clean a retainer. It is a type of effervescent tablet that can be used to clean retainers, mouthguards, and dentures. Simply drop the tablet into a cup of water and place the retainer in the cup.
The tablet will dissolve and release cleaning agents that will clean the retainer. Follow the instructions on the package for how long to soak the retainer. Afterward, rinse off the retainer with water and allow it to air dry.
#4 – Use vinegar-water solution.
Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and can be used to clean your retainer. One of the best ways on how to clean a retainer is to simply mix equal parts water and vinegar in a cup and soak the retainer in the solution for about 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse off the retainer with water and allow it to air dry.
#5 – Try hydrogen peroxide-baking soda-water solution.
This solution is a bit more abrasive and should only be used if the other methods haven’t worked. Simply mix 1 part hydrogen peroxide, 1 part water, and 1 teaspoon baking soda in a cup. Soak the retainer in the solution for about 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse off the retainer with water and allow it to air dry.
Other Retainer Maintenance Tips
- Always keep your retainers in a safe place when you’re not wearing them. This will help to prevent them from getting lost or damaged.
- If you have a case for your plastic retainer, clean it with soap and water periodically. This will help to keep the case clean and free of germs.
- Avoid exposing your plastic retainer to high heat, as this can cause it to warp. You don’t want this to happen as it will no longer fit properly.
- Skip the chemicals and opt for natural solutions whenever possible. Harsh cleaners can damage the plastic and cause it to yellow.
- It’s important to clean your retainer every day to prevent plaque buildup. Plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Make sure to wear your retainer as prescribed by your orthodontist. Wearing it less than prescribed can make them less effective and cause your teeth to shift.
- Practice good oral hygiene habits in general, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly. This will ensure there is no plaque and bacteria buildup that may damage your retainer or cause other oral health problems.
- Replace your retainer as needed. If it becomes damaged or no longer fits properly, be sure to get a new one from your orthodontist.
Consult the Best Orthodontist in Ontario – Orthodontist Markham
Dr. Mark Nalbandian is an experienced orthodontist Markham who has been providing high-quality care to patients in the Ontario area for many years. He pursued his dental degree from Columbia University in New York and later went on to earn his Certificate in Orthodontics from Howard University in Washington, D.C.
If you’re unsure about your treatment or have questions about how to clean a retainer, Dr. Nalbandian of Wired Orthodontics and our team would be happy to help. He can also provide you with a new set if your old ones no longer fit or have become damaged.
If you haven’t had an orthodontic treatment yet, you’re in the right place! Wired Orthodontics is a trusted practice in delivering high-quality braces and Invisalign in Ontario. We offer metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign as well as provide orthodontic surgery and dentofacial orthopedic services.
Our office is located at 3137 Sheppard Ave East, Unit 108, Scarborough, ON. Schedule an appointment with us today! Our orthodontist Markham and team are looking forward to meeting you and helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
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