When you have to wear a retainer for hours, plaque and bacteria can build up there. This article tells you how to use products you have around your home to keep it clean and prevent it from smelling and looking dirty. There are also commercial products that give better results, and they come complete with instructions that you find in their packaging.
Steps
Step 1. Rinse the retainer with warm or cold (not hot) water
Step 2. Put the retainer in the cup
Step 3. Pour the vinegar into the cup, completely submerging the retainer
Step 4. Let it soak for 2-5 minutes
Step 5. Remove the retainer and gently massage it with the toothbrush
Step 6. Rinse the retainer again with warm or cold water
Step 7. Repeat if necessary
Other Cleaning Tips =
- Clean the retainer well at least once a day to keep it fresh and free from bacteria or tartar residue.
- Always rinse the retainer when you remove it. Dry saliva can leave behind tartar residues. Remove the retainer and rinse it with warm water before sitting down to eat.
- You can use a soft toothbrush with a little non-abrasive toothpaste to clean most retainers. (remember that a toothbrush can scratch a clear Invisalign)
- You can occasionally use a toothbrush with baking soda to clean the retainer and neutralize odors. Remember that baking soda is abrasive and using it regularly can damage the retainer. Usually retainers cost between 80 and 250 euros.
- If you are unable to clean the retainer properly, call your dentist / orthodontist. Maybe it needs to be cleaned by an ultrasonic machine they have in the studio. If the retainer is covered with too much residue even for the ultrasonic machine, you will need to buy another one.
- Gently dry it with a napkin.
Tips Not Related to Cleaning =
- Try not to throw away the retainer by mistake. Always keep it in its case if you are not carrying it (remember this when you are at the hotel! The cleaners may mistake it for garbage!). Never wrap the retainer in a napkin and leave it on the table, and NEVER place it on the food tray.
- Put on the retainer! It is important to wear it exactly as recommended by your orthodontist during the first year without braces. It is the time when the teeth are most vulnerable and may twist again without proper containment.
- If you haven't worn the retainer for a few weeks and it fits tight, don't force yourself to put it in your mouth. Call the orthodontist. Probably the cause is improper maintenance.
- Listen to your orthodontist and always follow his advice and instructions on how to wear and care for your retainer.
Warnings
- Mouthwash containing alcohol can crack or crack certain types of plastic retainers. It is not recommended other than to refresh your retainer occasionally.
- Do not put the retainer in the dishwasher or in boiling water as the plastic will warp and shrink. Use only warm or warm water and be gentle with the retainer.
- Do not use multi-function cleaners or whiteners on the retainer. These products are toxic if ingested, and could damage the metal or acrylic.
- Do not use tablets to clean dentures regularly. They are too strong to clean a retainer and will cause the plastic or acrylic to yellow.
- Do not wrap the retainer in a napkin or handkerchief as it will stick.
