Ethan Clarke
Retainers are used to straighten teeth and maintain their new, corrected positions after orthodontic treatment. They can be made from metal wires and acrylic or plastic. It is important to store your retainer properly to avoid damaging or losing it. The best way to store a plastic retainer is in its case, which protects it from getting damaged. It is also important to keep your retainer clean to avoid bacteria buildup, which can be done by soaking it in water or a mixture of water and baking soda, or by cleaning it with mild soap and lukewarm water.
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What You'll Learn
Keep retainers in water to prevent cracking
Plastic retainers can warp or become misshapen when exposed to heat. To prevent this, always keep your retainer in its case when you aren't wearing it, and try to keep the case out of direct sunlight. You should also avoid cleaning your retainer with hot water, as this can damage the material.
Keeping your retainer in water when you're not wearing it can prevent the material from cracking or drying out. While it may not be practical to carry a cup of water with you everywhere you go, you may want to do this overnight if you don't need to wear your retainer. Soaking your retainer can also help keep it clean and free from bacteria. However, remember to clean and dry it before putting it back in your mouth or storing it in its case.
If you're using water to prevent your retainer from drying out, make sure to use distilled water. The minerals in tap water can seed the formation of plaque (or "calculus") on your retainer. You can also add a few shakes of baking soda to the water to prevent bacteria from growing and to deodorise your retainer. Baking soda is a safe, natural, and effective deodoriser that can stabilise the pH of your mouth, keeping bacteria at bay.
If you don't have access to distilled water, you can soak your retainer in a damp paper towel until you can clean it properly. You can also use a mixture of castile soap and water to clean and moisturise your retainer without exposing it to harmful substances. Avoid using vinegar to clean your retainer, as it has a strong smell and can be unpleasant to use. If you do use vinegar, clean your retainer outside to reduce the lingering odour.
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Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning
Plastic retainers are prone to damage from harsh chemicals and high temperatures. To avoid this, it is important to use only mild, non-abrasive cleaning agents and lukewarm water.
To clean your plastic retainer, start by gently brushing it with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles. Be sure to use a separate toothbrush dedicated solely to cleaning your retainer. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and scratch the delicate plastic surface. Instead, opt for mild, unscented liquid soap or a paste made from baking soda and water. Baking soda is a gentle and effective cleaner that helps eliminate odours, bacteria, and plaque without the use of harsh chemicals.
It is important to avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach and cleaning alcohol when cleaning your plastic retainer. These chemicals can damage the plastic material and affect its shape and integrity. Similarly, avoid using coloured mouthwash, as it can stain your retainer. If you wish to use mouthwash, choose an alcohol-free, uncoloured variety and always rinse the retainer thoroughly afterward to remove any residue.
Another important consideration is to avoid exposing your retainer to high temperatures. Do not use hot water or boil your retainer, as this can cause warping and distort its custom shape. Lukewarm or cool water is recommended for rinsing and soaking your retainer. Additionally, keep your retainer away from direct heat sources, such as stoves or heaters, and never place it in the dishwasher, as the high temperatures can damage the plastic.
By following these guidelines and using mild cleaning agents, you can effectively clean your plastic retainer while avoiding the potential damage caused by harsh chemicals and high temperatures. Remember to always store your retainer in its proper case when not in use to protect it from external factors and maintain its longevity.
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Store in a case, not a napkin
Retainers are small and easily misplaced, so it's important to store them in a case when they're not in your mouth. Leaving a retainer on a napkin or a dinner plate can result in it being accidentally thrown away by you, a server, or a family member. The case is typically brightly coloured and stands out, whereas a napkin can easily get mixed in with other things on a table.
Cases also protect your retainers from getting crushed, bent, snapped, or otherwise damaged. They prevent the retainer from getting exposed to heat, sunlight, or other heat sources that can cause warping. Warping can affect the fit and effectiveness of the retainer, hindering your orthodontic treatment.
If you need to take your retainer out to eat while you're out, bring your case with you. That way, you can store your retainer safely and avoid losing or damaging it.
Additionally, when storing your retainer, it's important to keep it clean and dry to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup. Rinse the retainer with clean water and dry it before placing it back in its case.
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Avoid heat sources
Plastic retainers can become brittle if they dry out and are prone to warping when exposed to heat. To avoid this, there are several heat sources you should keep your retainer away from.
Firstly, always keep your retainer in its case when you aren't wearing it, and try to keep the case out of direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause the plastic to warp or become misshapen, affecting the fit and effectiveness of the retainer.
Secondly, avoid storing your retainer in your car, especially during the summer months, as the high temperatures can damage the plastic.
When cleaning your retainer, avoid using hot water as this can also cause warping. Instead, use lukewarm or cool water and a mild soap or non-abrasive cleaner. Do not use harsh chemicals such as bleach, alcohol, or mouthwash containing alcohol, as these can damage the plastic.
Other heat sources to avoid include heaters, stoves, and dishwashers. Keeping your retainer in water when not in use can help prevent cracking and reduce the risk of bacterial growth, but always use fresh, clean water to avoid contamination.
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Clean with mild soap and lukewarm water
Clean your retainer with mild soap and lukewarm water every time you brush your teeth, which should be two to three times a day. You can also soak your retainer in a retainer cleaning solution, such as Retainer Brite, once or twice a week. To keep your retainer free of plaque and bacteria, clean it as soon as you take it out of your mouth. It is easier to remove plaque from a retainer while it is still soft.
To clean your retainer, gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and a mild soap or non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and cause scratches. You should also avoid using bleach, alcohol, or other harsh chemicals to clean your retainer, as these substances can damage the plastic and affect its fit.
Lukewarm water is best for cleaning your retainer, as hot water can cause the plastic to warp. However, keeping your retainer moist with water can help prevent cracking and warping by maintaining the retainer's flexibility. Water can also reduce the risk of bacterial growth, which thrives in dry, warm environments.
After cleaning your retainer, do not leave it out in the open or store it in a napkin. Instead, place it back in its case carefully to prevent damage.
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Frequently asked questions
You should always store your retainer in its case when you aren't wearing it. The rigid case protects your retainer from getting crushed, bent, or damaged. You should also keep the case out of direct sunlight and away from other heat sources.
You should clean your retainer daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a non-abrasive cleaner. You can also soak your retainer in a solution of equal parts water and vinegar, or water and baking soda, to keep it clean and minimise bacteria. Be sure to rinse the cleaning solution off your retainer after soaking.
Yes, keeping your retainer in water when you're not wearing it can prevent it from drying out and cracking. However, you must use fresh, clean water each time to prevent bacteria from growing.
