How To Clean Your Retainer

The device should be cleaned each time the teeth are brushed. They can be brushed gently with a soft toothbrush and regular toothpaste. A more thorough cleaning should be completed at least once a week. It is necessary to clean the retainer when it contains a film, it tastes or smells bad, it looks cloudy or has white spots.

Even though just water itself is not enough for a cleaning, it is important to drink a lot of it during the day. The water can also be swished around several times in the mouth each day. It is not good to drink a lot of sugary drinks or eat with the device in the mouth.

A denture cleaner can be used once in a while. However, the device should first be rinsed and then soaked for almost 20 minutes. It can then be softly cleaned with the toothbrush. Using a denture clean can cause the retainer to turn yellow.

Baking soda is very safe and can whiten and disinfect the de ice. A paste that is mixed with half baking soda and half water can be used for scrubbing. The toothbrush can be also used to finish the job and then it can be thoroughly rinsed.

To also removed any residues and odors, vinegar that is white is a perfect solution. The vinegar can also be mixed with water and soaked for about 20 minutes. Since vinegar smells strong, it is also a good plan to rinse the device right after this cleansing.

Castile soap is a cleaning product that is much safer and less toxic than other products. Just simply add a little amount of the soap with warm water. It can be dipped right into the substance and then cleaned with a toothbrush. It can then be soaked for two to three minutes and then scrubbed more if it is necessary. Then it should be rinsed off with cool water, put in distilled water, and put back into the mouth.

A non-alcoholic mouthwash can also be used to dip the device for two to three minutes. It is also possible to purchase a retainer cleaner and then carefully follow the package directions. The orthodontist will be able to give suggestions on which type of cleaner to use.