Chloe Zhang
Retainers are susceptible to bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup, which can compromise oral health and the retainer's longevity. While daily cleaning with antibacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush is recommended, it does not kill germs. Thus, disinfecting a plastic retainer is crucial to prevent reinfection and the spread of viruses. This can be done using various methods, such as denture solutions, baking soda and water mixes, or white vinegar and water soaks, each with their own specific instructions and considerations.
How to Disinfect a Plastic Retainer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency | Clean daily, disinfect occasionally |
| Products | Baking soda, white vinegar, mild dish soap, castile soap, denture cleaner, mouthwash, retainer cleaning tablets, ultrasonic cleaner |
| Tools | Soft-bristled toothbrush, cotton swab |
| Don'ts | Avoid toothpaste, disinfectant wipes, hot water, and mouthwash with alcohol and colour |
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What You'll Learn
Use baking soda and water
Baking soda is a safe, all-purpose disinfectant that can be used to clean plastic retainers. It helps control bacteria without harsh chemicals and can prevent a retainer from developing pH imbalances that harm the mouth. It also keeps bad bacteria at bay by stabilising the pH of the mouth and rebalancing the oral microbiome.
To use baking soda to clean your retainer, start by rinsing your retainer with water. Then, create a mixture of one teaspoon of baking soda and half a cup of lukewarm water. Mix them well. Remember to never use hot water to clean your retainers, as this can cause warping. You can also make a paste by mixing equal parts water and baking soda. The paste should be thick enough to stick to your retainer.
Once you have your mixture or paste, brush it inside and outside your retainer, then rinse off with cool or warm water. Make a fresh batch of the baking soda and water mixture each time you clean your retainer to minimise bacteria.
In addition to the above method, you can also soak your retainer in a solution of baking soda and vinegar. Start by filling a container with half vinegar and half water, then add one tablespoon of baking soda. Place the retainer in the solution and let it soak for 15 minutes. Afterward, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub the retainer and then rinse off with cold water. This method helps remove calcium deposits and whitens retainers that have yellowed.
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Try white vinegar and water
White vinegar and water is an effective method for disinfecting your retainer. This natural disinfectant has the added benefit of removing visible spots.
To use this method, create a mixture of half white vinegar and half warm water in a small dish. You can then submerge your retainer in the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes. It is important to note that vinegar has a strong smell, so you may want to clean your retainer outdoors. After soaking, be sure to thoroughly rinse your retainer with cold water. Then, soak it in distilled water as usual.
Some sources recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub your retainer clean if it is covered in a film or mineral deposits. You can then rinse it with cold water and soak it for another 20 minutes.
While white vinegar and water are generally safe for plastic retainers, it is always a good idea to consult your dentist before applying any new product.
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Avoid abrasive toothpaste
While toothpaste is a common go-to for cleaning retainers, it's important to note that not all types of toothpaste are suitable for this purpose, especially when it comes to plastic retainers.
Toothpaste is designed to clean teeth, which are much harder and more durable than plastic retainers. Toothpaste contains abrasive particles that can scratch and damage the delicate surfaces of plastic retainers. These scratches can create spaces for bacteria to reside and multiply, leading to potential oral health issues.
Instead of using toothpaste, it is recommended to opt for milder alternatives such as liquid dish soap or retainer-specific cleaning tablets. These options effectively remove bacteria and odours without damaging the retainer's material. For example, retainer cleaning tablets provide a safe and effective solution, ensuring thorough cleaning without risking damage to the retainer.
Additionally, it is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush when cleaning a plastic retainer. A soft-bristled toothbrush helps gently remove plaque, bacteria, and food debris without causing any abrasion or damage to the retainer's surface. The combination of a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap or cleaning tablets is a much safer choice for maintaining the integrity and cleanliness of a plastic retainer.
While some sources suggest using non-whitening toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush, it is always advisable to consult a dentist or orthodontist for specific recommendations regarding the type of toothpaste and cleaning methods suitable for your particular retainer.
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Soak in denture solution
Denture solutions are a good option for disinfecting retainers, especially if you don't have any other options available. However, it's important to note that denture cleaners can turn retainers yellow over time. Therefore, it is recommended to use denture cleaner occasionally rather than as a regular cleaning method.
To clean your retainer with a denture solution, start by rinsing the retainer with water. Then, follow the instructions on the denture cleaner packaging. Most denture cleaners recommend soaking the retainer in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes. After soaking, gently scrub the retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse it thoroughly with water until the taste of the denture cleaner is gone.
It is important to choose a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching or dulling the plastic of your retainer. Additionally, avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive. Instead, opt for mild, unscented, liquid dish soap or castile soap for extra cleaning power.
While denture solutions are convenient, there are also natural alternatives you can use. For example, baking soda is an effective and safe disinfectant that can help control bacteria and prevent pH imbalances in the mouth. It is also a natural deodorizer that can help eliminate odours and prevent the retainer from smelling like rotten fruit. To use baking soda, create a paste with half water and half baking soda, scrub the retainer gently, and then rinse thoroughly.
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Clean with antibacterial soap
Cleaning your retainer with antibacterial soap is an effective way to keep it free from bacteria. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Firstly, it is important to clean your retainer as soon as you remove it from your mouth, while it is still wet. This makes it easier to clean off any debris before it hardens. Rinse the retainer under warm water for 30 seconds. Be careful not to use water that is too hot, as this can affect the soft material inside your retainer.
Next, squeeze a small amount of antibacterial soap onto a soft-bristled toothbrush. Pairing your toothbrush with an antibacterial, unscented soap is ideal as these soaps are alcohol-free, so they won't dry out your retainer. You can find these liquid soaps online or at convenience stores, typically costing between $3 and $10.
Now, gently scrub your retainer for about a minute, making sure to cover both the inside and outside of it. After scrubbing, rinse your retainer again under warm water, ensuring that all soap residue is removed.
Finally, shake the retainer dry to remove moisture before placing it back into its storage case. This process should become a daily cleaning routine to ensure your retainer is well maintained.
While antibacterial soap is a good option, it is worth noting that some other effective methods for cleaning retainers include using baking soda, white vinegar, and denture solutions.
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