Plastic retainers can be cleaned in several ways. For general cleaning, use castile soap or mild dish soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can also soak it in a solution of water and vinegar or baking soda. Do not put it to boil or in the dishwasher.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Using a Mild Soap
Step 1. Rinse the retainer using warm or cold water
The water will prepare him for the cleaning process.
Step 2. Pour a mild soap on a toothbrush
You can use liquid castile soap or a mild dish soap. You will also need a soft-bristled toothbrush. This way you will avoid scratching it.
Alternatively, use toothpaste. But choose a normal, non-whitening one, or make a baking soda paste by mixing 3 parts of baking soda and 1 part of water
Step 3. Gently scrub the retainer
Make sure you scrub it both inside and out until all dirt is removed.
Step 4. Rinse it off
Do a second rinse after cleansing. Hold it under running cold or lukewarm water until all soap residue is gone.
Clean the retainer 1 or 2 times a week, or as often as you deem necessary
Method 2 of 3: Using a Water and Vinegar Solution
Step 1. In a cup, mix equal parts of water and vinegar
Make sure you prepare enough solution to fully immerse the retainer in the cup.
Alternatively, you can use 3% hydrogen peroxide instead of vinegar
Step 2. Rinse the retainer with cold or lukewarm water
Then, put it in the cup. Let it soak in the solution for 15 to 30 minutes. At this point remove it from the container.
Step 3. Scrub the retainer with a toothbrush
Make sure it has soft bristles. Gently rub it inside and out.
Step 4. Rinse it with cold water
Make sure you rinse it thoroughly until all residue is removed. Once the process is complete, put it back in your mouth or keep it in the special case.
Leave the retainer to soak in the solution 1 or 2 times a week to keep it clean
Method 3 of 3: Using Sodium Bicarbonate
Step 1. Mix 1 cup (250ml) of cold water and 1 tablespoon (15ml) of hydrogen peroxide
Add 1 teaspoon (5 g) of baking soda. Mix the ingredients with a spoon until you get a smooth paste.
If you want to make a refreshing solution, add a drop of peppermint oil
Step 2. Put the retainer in the cup
Make sure you immerse it completely in the solution. Let it soak for 15 to 30 minutes, then remove it.
Step 3. Rinse the retainer with cold water
Do not use warm or hot water, otherwise you risk making it melt. Rinse thoroughly until all of the solution is removed, then place it in its container or place it back in your mouth.
Clean it once a week to keep it fresh and clean
Advice
You can also use retainer-specific cleaning pads, such as Brildent
Warnings
- Do not wash the retainer by boiling it, otherwise you will melt it and alter its shape.
- Do not put the retainer in the dishwasher.
- Do not use harsh cleaners containing chemicals such as bleaches, denture tablets and / or mouthwash.
