How to Clean an Orthodontic Retainer
If you have recently completed an orthodontic treatment, like braces, or Invisalign, your orthodontist probably gave you something called a retainer. After braces or other orthodontia are removed, your teeth continue to shift. A retainer helps to “retain” your teeth and keep them in their proper position.
Cleaning a retainer depends on what type of retainer you have. There are three different types: Hawley, clear plastic, and fixed. Hawley and clear plastic retainers are removable, while fixed retainers are not.
How to Clean Hawley and Clear Plastic Retainers
Hawley retainers are made with a colored acrylic base, molded to fit the roof of your mouth, and metal wires that sit over your teeth to hold it in place. Clear plastic aligners are made of clear plastic, and they are comfortable and mostly invisible. Here’s how you should clean them:
Clean your retainer every time you remove it from your mouth.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water.
Gently brush all the surfaces to clean bacteria.
At least once a week, use mild dish soap to clean.
Don’t use hot or boiling water, toothpaste, or hard toothbrushes; these can damage your retainer.
How to Clean Fixed Retainers
Fixed retainers are bonded to the inner surfaces of your teeth, so cleaning them involves brushing and flossing. Flossing a fixed retainer is like flossing with braces:
Floss your fixed retainer daily.
Thread the floss through the wire of the retainer or use a floss threader.
Floss between the teeth that are attached to the retainer.
If you need help cleaning your retainer or if you notice debris that won’t come off, bring it to Midland Family Dental. We can give it a professional cleaning!