Keeping Your Retainer Clean

August 19, 2011
Category: Orthodontics

 

After months or even years of wearing braces, your orthodontist may give you a removable retainer as the next stage of treatment to keep your teeth straight and aligned.

Along with good brushing and flossing, wearing your retainer is an important step for the maintenance of your new smile.  But what many people don’t know is that their oral device can develop a buildup of potentially harmful bacteria if it isn’t cleaned properly.  

Recent studies have found that retainers may harbor more than food; it can actually be a breeding ground for microscopic pathogens.  Since retainers aren’t typically worn at all hours of the day, the potential for bacteria transmission is high.

Keeping your retainer clean as a part of your regular brushing and flossing regimen will only take a few extra minutes.  It will not only smell and taste better, but it will also help put a halt to bacteria growth.

Here are a few helpful tips to keep your retainer clean and bacteria-free:

Always rinse your retainer in water after you’ve removed it as dry saliva can cause tartar buildup

  • Remember to clean your retainer storage case periodically to avoid cross-contamination
  • Carefully brush your retainer with a toothbrush and tooth paste to help keep the retainer clean, before and after use
  • Wash hands before and after handling the retainer
  • Never use hot water to rinse or clean your retainer as it may distort the shape of the appliance
  • Ask your dentist before cleaning your appliance with alcohol-based mouthwashes or denture cleaners as they can dry out your retainer, causing it to crack.

While most people are aware of good brushing and flossing habits, the care of removable oral devices is often overlooked. Make it a priority to keep your retainer clean as a part of your routine dental care. And if you need help keeping it in tip top shape, ask Grove for assistance.  

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