We have carefully resumed routine orthodontic care to serve you. Please see our safety procedures here and call us for your next visit.

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Take Care of That Retainer!

Braces-wearers want to keep the results of their treatment as long as possible.

For the best chance of achieving that goal, they should be carefully following the orthodontist’s instructions on how to use their retainers. Part of that isn’t just about wearing the retainers but about keeping them clean.

Why Do Retainers Need Cleaning?

Retainers are just as susceptible to plaque and tartar buildup as our teeth are, so they need to be cleaned just as diligently. If we don’t, they will quickly become filmy, smelly, foul-tasting, and covered in crusty white spots. Gross!

Removable Versus Permanent Retainer Care

For those with removable retainers, rinse them with cool water and brush them with gentle soap once (or more) a day. Permanent retainers can make flossing trickier but it’s important to persevere and floss around them even if it’s difficult because tartar can build up around them otherwise. Floss threaders can help with that!

Sometimes They Need a Deeper Clean

Every once in a while, it’s a good idea to deep-clean that retainer, just like the hygienist deep-cleans our teeth at dental appointments. Do this with a simple mixture of water and baking soda, vinegar, or hydrogen peroxide. Soak the retainer for a few minutes, then rinse and dry it. Never use hot water or harsh chemicals on a retainer!

Make sure to ask us the best way to store a removable retainer between uses, as this can vary by type.

Top image used under CC0 Public Domain license. Image cropped and modified from original.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.