Alexei Volkov
Plastic retainers are essential in maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. However, they are prone to damage and can break or crack if not handled correctly. To prevent plastic retainers from breaking, it is important to follow certain care guidelines. Firstly, when removing the retainer, use both hands and pull it off the teeth in a steady, smooth motion, avoiding any rotation or twisting as this can cause cracking or breaking. Secondly, store the retainer correctly in its case when not in use to protect it from environmental damage and accidental impact. Additionally, clean the retainer regularly but gently, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash as it can dry out and crack the plastic. By following these steps and handling the retainer with care, you can help prevent it from breaking and ensure the longevity of your orthodontic investment.
How to prevent plastic retainers from breaking
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Removal | Use both hands and pull the retainers off the teeth in a steady, smooth motion. Avoid any rotation, as retainers can crack and break when twisted. |
| Cleaning | Support the retainer in your hand or on a towel when brushing. Avoid holding on to one side and brushing the other, as this creates uneven pressure and flexing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. |
| Storage | Always store retainers in their case when not in use to protect against environmental damage, accidental impact, and pets. |
| Materials | Ensure your retainers are made by a dental lab that is familiar with the creation of Essix retainers and only uses the highest-quality materials. Essix Plus retainers are two times stronger than standard Essix retainers. |
| Maintenance | Regularly examine your retainers for cracks, detachments, or breaks. Clean retainers with warm, soapy water and a toothbrush before attempting any repairs. |
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What You'll Learn
Always store retainers in their case when not in use
Plastic retainers are essential for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment, but they can be prone to damage, cracking, or even complete breakage. One of the most common reasons for cracking in retainers is users incorrectly removing their retainers. Incorrect removal can put unnecessary strain on your retainer that will eventually lead to cracking or breaking if not corrected. To correctly remove your retainer, use one finger on each side to prevent flexing and twisting as you pull the retainer out of your mouth.
Once removed, always store your retainers in their case when not in use to protect against damage. The storage case is designed to protect the retainer from environmental damage, accidental impact, or pets. Even when in the case, remember to keep the retainers well out of reach of pets, as they may chew through the case to get to the retainers.
When cleaning your retainer, you want to cup it in one hand and clean it with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothbrush with the other hand. You can also lay them on a soft towel on a flat surface. Be careful not to brush too hard. Soaking the retainers in a denture solution will make cleaning the retainers easier. Do not soak the retainers in an alcohol-based mouthwash, as the alcohol will dry the retainer out and lead to perishing and cracking.
If your retainer is broken into one or more pieces, remove it immediately and do not wear it until it is repaired. Rinse your mouth with salt water to heal any cuts from cracked retainers. If your retainer has completely cracked or broken, your orthodontist might have to work from scratch to fix it.
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Avoid bending, dropping, or exposing to high heat
Plastic retainers are essential to maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. However, they are prone to damage and can break if not handled with care. To prevent your plastic retainer from breaking, it is important to avoid bending, dropping, or exposing it to high heat. Here are some detailed instructions to help you achieve this:
Avoid Bending
To prevent bending your retainer, always handle it with care. Use both hands when removing the retainer, and pull it off your teeth in a steady, smooth motion. Avoid any rotation or twisting as this can cause cracking or breaking. When cleaning, do not hold the retainer in a way that creates uneven pressure and flexing. Instead, support it in your hand or on a soft towel and apply gentle, even pressure when brushing. Avoid bending the retainer by not playing with it using your tongue, and always remove it slowly and carefully.
Avoid Dropping
To prevent dropping your retainer, always store it in its case when not in use. The storage case is designed to protect the retainer from accidental impacts and potential damage. Keep the case out of reach of pets, as they may chew through it to get to the retainer. When handling the retainer, use both hands to provide better control and reduce the risk of dropping.
Avoid Exposing to High Heat
To prevent exposing your retainer to high heat, avoid using boiling water for cleaning or soaking. Lukewarm or cool water is recommended for rinsing and soaking your retainer. Avoid using any alcohol-based mouthwash as this can dry out the retainer and lead to cracking. Do not place the retainer near heat sources or in direct sunlight, as the plastic material may warp or become brittle when exposed to high temperatures.
By following these instructions and being mindful of the potential risks, you can effectively avoid bending, dropping, or exposing your plastic retainer to high heat, significantly reducing the chances of breakage.
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Remove retainers correctly to prevent twisting and cracking
Improper removal is the most common reason retainers break. To prevent twisting and cracking, it is important to remove your retainer correctly.
Firstly, make sure your hands are clean. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your retainer. This will help to prevent the transfer of bacteria and other debris onto the retainer.
When removing the retainer, use both hands and gently pull the retainers off your teeth in a steady, smooth motion. Place one finger on each side of the retainer to prevent flexing and twisting as you pull. Avoid any rotation, as twisting can lead to cracking and breaking. Do not flip the retainer with your tongue or pull it out forcefully on one side, as this can also cause breakage. Instead, loosen the retainer in several places and ease it off.
Once removed, either cup the retainer gently in one hand and clean it, or place it directly into its container. The storage case is designed to protect the retainer from environmental damage, accidental impact, and pets. Always store your retainer in its case when not in use to avoid damage.
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Clean retainers with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-alcoholic mouthwash
To clean plastic retainers with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-alcoholic mouthwash, follow these steps:
Firstly, it is important to note that mouthwash should not be used as a primary cleaning agent for retainers. While it is designed to combat plaque, bacteria, and other deposits in the mouth, it may not thoroughly clean retainers. In addition, the colours in mouthwash can stain retainer plastic, and alcoholic mouthwash can dry out retainers, leading to perishing and cracking.
However, if no other cleaning options are available, non-alcoholic mouthwash can be used to clean retainers. Begin by dipping the retainer into a cup of non-alcoholic mouthwash for 2-3 minutes. After soaking, thoroughly rinse the retainer with cold water. Finally, gently brush the retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
To maintain good oral hygiene, it is important to brush your teeth and retainer after eating. Use a separate soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your retainer, removing plaque, bacteria, and food debris. Once you have finished brushing, rinse the retainer with lukewarm water.
In addition to brushing and rinsing, deep cleaning your retainer can help prevent bacterial buildup and keep it in good condition. There are several methods for deep cleaning your retainer. One option is to use a mixture of baking soda and water. Make a fresh paste with baking soda and water, then scrub your retainer with a toothbrush. After scrubbing, leave the retainer to soak in the solution for 2-3 minutes before rinsing it with cool water.
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Avoid hard foods or sports that may damage retainers
To prevent retainers from breaking, it is important to avoid hard foods and sports that may cause damage.
Firstly, it is recommended to avoid chewing hard, chewy, or sticky foods while wearing a retainer. These foods can get lodged in the retainer, causing it to break. Examples of such foods include hard candies or ice. Instead of chewing these foods, it is advisable to let them dissolve in your mouth. Additionally, it is important to avoid biting or clenching down too hard on the retainer, as this can also cause damage.
Secondly, it is crucial to refrain from playing sports with a broken permanent retainer as it can lead to serious physical injury, especially if there are protruding wires. Contact sports, such as basketball or football, pose a high risk of impact that can debond the retainer or break the wires. Swimming with a retainer is also not recommended as it may fall out and be difficult to retrieve, and chlorinated water can damage the retainer.
To summarize, preventing retainers from breaking requires avoiding certain foods and sports activities. By being cautious about what you eat and participating in sports that carry a lower risk of impact, you can significantly reduce the chances of damaging your retainer.
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Frequently asked questions
Improper removal is the most common reason retainers break. To prevent this, use one finger on each side to prevent flexing and twisting as you pull the retainer out of your mouth.
Improper handling while cleaning is another common way retainers break. When cleaning your retainer, you want to cup it in one hand and clean with a soft-bristle toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste with the other hand.
Always store your retainer in its case when it’s not in use. The storage case is designed to protect the retainer from environmental damage, accidental impact, and pets.
Essix retainers are the most modern style of retainer, allowing for custom-fitting at a low cost. However, they are fragile and can easily break if not properly cared for. Essix Plus retainers are made from a material that is two times stronger than standard Essix retainers.
Avoid playing with your retainer by taking it on and off with your tongue.
