Orthodontist Suggestions For How To Clean Your Retainer

A retainer is often recommended by an orthodontist to ensure that teeth stay in their current location. After braces, a patient may need to wear a retainer because as the body grows, there is a chance that the teeth will once again shift. Each retainer is unique to the individual patient but they are all important to maintain a beautiful smile. In order to extend the life of a retainer, consistent cleanings are both helpful and necessary.

Why Keep It Clean?
Purchasing a retainer from an orthodontist can be expensive. Remember that each one is unique and customized to the patient. When it gets lost or damaged, the whole process needs to be repeated and it takes time and materials. On average, a retainer can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 or more. The cost alone is enough reason to keep it clean. If it gets bad, it may need to be cleaned professionally, adding to its cost. It is possible to let things get so bad that cleaning is impossible. In this case, new equipment will need to be purchased.

Materials Needed:
Before cleaning the retainer, bring a soft toothbrush, vinegar, and a small cup over to one of the sinks in the home. It is important to talk to your orthodontist before cleaning a retainer at home. He or she will be able to give you specific directions that apply to what you are using. For example, some retainers should not be cleaned with abrasive toothpastes. Sometime, you may need to use baking soda for a deeper clean. This has the potential to leave scratches and should not be used all the time or not at all, depending on the instructions from your orthodontist.

Cleaning:
Start by rinsing it with warm water. Do not use hot water as this too could cause damage. Place the retainer inside the small cup. Be sure that the cup is large enough to contain the retainer with plenty of room for it to be submerged. Fill the cup up with vinegar and allow it to set for anywhere from two to five minutes. Don't worry if it does not come out perfectly clean right away. In some cases, this process may need to be repeated more than once.

Remove it from the cup and scrub gently with a soft toothbrush. Take your time and reach all of the different crevices to ensure that you are removing all of the bacteria and tartar build up. There is no need to scrub. Remember, if it does not come clean right away, the process can be completed. Rinse with warm water once again and the process is complete.

Find out what your orthodontist recommends when it comes to cleaning your retainer. If you notice that there is a real problem with buildup, make an appointment for a professional cleaning.