After orthodontic treatment, it’s important to know the best way to clean your retainer to keep it fresh and effective.
Your retainer plays a crucial role in preventing your teeth from shifting back to their original positions, but it can quickly accumulate bacteria, plaque, and food particles if not cleaned regularly.
Fortunately, keeping your retainer fresh and hygienic isn’t complicated. It just requires a bit of daily attention.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to clean your retainer, from everyday maintenance to deep cleaning tips, ensuring it remains clear, comfortable, and effective for as long as possible.
Why is it important to clean your retainer?
Retainers are exposed to the same bacteria and plaque that build up on your teeth.
Over time, plaque and tartar can also make your retainer look cloudy or stained, reducing its clarity and making it less discreet.
Proper cleaning routines help extend the lifespan of your retainer, saving you from the inconvenience and cost of replacing it sooner than necessary.
By keeping your retainer clean, you’re also ensuring that it continues to fit correctly, preventing your teeth from shifting out of place.
Daily steps to clean your retainer
Establishing a simple daily cleaning routine can make a big difference in keeping your retainer in good condition.
Follow these steps to keep your retainer fresh:
Rinse immediately
Each time you take your retainer out, start by rinsing it under lukewarm water. This helps to wash away saliva and any food particles before they can dry and harden. Make sure the water isn’t too hot, as this can cause the plastic to warp, affecting the fit.
Brush gently
Using a soft toothbrush and mild liquid soap, gently brush your retainer to remove any remaining debris. It’s best to avoid toothpaste for this step, as its abrasive texture can scratch the plastic, creating tiny grooves where bacteria can hide. Brush all surfaces thoroughly, paying extra attention to any grooves or edges.
PuraDent cleaning spray
For a quick and effective cleaning solution when you’re on the go, the PuraDent cleaning spray is a must-have.
This handy spray keeps your retainer clean, fresh, and free from bacteria and odours.
How to use PuraDent cleaning spray
Simply rinse your retainer with water to remove any visible debris, then spray the cleaner directly onto the retainer and its container. Let it air dry, and rinse with cold water before your next use.
Retainer cleaning tablets
Retainer cleaning tablets like Dentipur and Nitradine are an effective way to keep your retainer fresh, clean, and free from discolouration.
These specially designed tablets help remove bacteria, plaque, and stains, ensuring your retainer stays clean and clear for longer.
How to use retainer cleaning tablets
To use, simply dissolve a Dentipur or Nitradine tablet in lukewarm water, then soak your retainer in the solution for the recommended time.
The disinfectant action helps to eliminate harmful bacteria while also lifting any discolouration that may have developed.
After soaking, rinse your retainer with cold water before wearing it again.
Sonic Spa Pro
The Sonic Spa Pro offers a more intense clean for your retainer, using both ultrasonic and UV-C technology to provide a deeper level of hygiene.
In just 3 minutes, it effectively eliminates 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and pathogens, leaving your retainer fresh, clean, and free from harmful germs.
The combination of UV-C light and ultrasonic waves ensures a thorough clean, without the need for scrubbing or brushing. Plus, it’s made with recycled plastics, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Keep your retainer in top condition
Keeping your retainer clean doesn’t have to be a chore.
By integrating a few simple steps into your daily routine and using the right cleaning products, you can keep your retainer fresh and effective without much hassle.
Keeping your retainer in great shape also means you can avoid the cost and inconvenience of needing a replacement sooner than expected.
