Tips for a clean retainer.

You wouldn’t not brush your teeth, yet many people go days—or even weeks—without cleaning their retainers.

It is extremely important for your oral health to keep your retainer clean. Plaque and bacteria can grow on your retainer, and that’s not something you’d want to apply to your teeth and gums each day!

Here are our tips for keeping your retainer in the cleanest and healthiest condition possible.

1. Brush with a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

Each time you brush your teeth, you should brush your retainer as well. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and steer clear from scrubbing the retainer hard with toothpaste, as it has abrasives which will turn your clear retainer cloudy.

2. Denture Tablets (Occasionally)

For an occasional soaking, it’s safe to use denture cleaner—but only when you’re in a pinch. That’s because denture cleaner isn’t formulated for retainers and can turn the plastic yellow over time.

If you do choose to use this, just soak your retainer in the cleaner for about 20 minutes. When the time is up, remove it then gently scrub with a toothbrush and rinse well.

3. Vinegar + Water Mix

This is a good at-home method. Mix equal amounts of white distilled vinegar and warm tap water in a cup. Soak your retainer for 15 to 30 minutes, brush it, and rinse thoroughly. Note that while vinegar has some germ-killing capabilities, it will not prevent white plaque buildup.

4. Mouthwash Soak (Occasionally)

Like using denture tablets, soaking your retainer in mouthwash isn’t a method you should rely on, but it can help freshen your retainer once in a while. Just be sure to dilute it in equal parts water.

Mouthwash contains alcohol, which can be harmful to your retainer with regular soaking. Also, a colored mouthwash may turn your retainer that color if soaked for too long. It takes a lot of brushing to make a green retainer clear again!

5. Dish Soap

Avoid putting the retainer in the dishwasher; however, regular dish soap and warm water can be used to keep the retainer clean. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and soap to scrub the retainer, but be sure not to use the same toothbrush on your teeth.

6. Professional Retainer Cleaner Tablets

There are many professional products formulated specifically for retainers. Simply dissolve the tablets into a cup of water and let your retainer soak in the mixture for the allotted time. When the time is up, rinse your retainer under running water. These tablets kill bacteria, keep the retainer fresh, and prevent plaque buildup.

7. At-home Ultrasonic Cleaning

There are now at-home ultrasonic cleaners that vibrate the retainer in water to help remove any debris. You can also place a professional cleaning tablet in the water for added benefit. Ask about these cleaners at your next Meyer Orthodontic appointment, as we have them in stock at our Brookings office.

Get Squeeky Clean

There are plenty of methods for cleaning your retainer. When you’re fighting off plaque and bacterial buildup, you want a cleaning routine that is effective and consistently keeps your retainer clean. If you’re unsure, contact us and we’ll walk you through your options, helping you choose the best one for you.