Why Cleaning and Caring for your Retainer is Important

It looks like somebody got their braces off! That is, Chances are that if you’ve found your way here, you recently had your appliances removed. Congratulations! That’s great work, and we’re proud of you for sticking with your treatment plan! 

Of course, now that your braces are off, that doesn’t mean your role is finished when it comes to keeping that newly-crafted smile gleaming. That’s right – it’s time to talk about how to take care of your retainer. Don’t worry, though. Dr. Selden and everyone here at Selden Orthodontics want to set you up for success. That’s why we’ve come up with this little guide on how to take care of your retainer. This reading will fill you in on all the reasons why cleaning and caring for your retainer is important, so let’s get started! 

Background Info On Your Retainer. 

Since your retainer will be in your mouth most of the day for at least the first four months after your braces come off (hint, hint!), there is plenty of time for harmful bacteria and the leftover food particles that can lead to the plaque to accumulate. Dr. Selden can give you specific directions, but one thing’s for sure – you’ll want to clean your retainer daily. A good time for this is at the same time you brush your teeth.    

Cleaning Your Retainer. 

Depending on your specific retainer type, your cleaning procedure may vary slightly. The three types of retainers are as follows: 

Fixed retainers

While less common than removable retainers, a fixed option can take a lot of the pressure off since you won’t have to worry about forgetting to wear them! 

Your fixed retainer works by being glued to the back or “lingual” side of the front teeth. Generally, a stainless steel wire is used to keep your teeth from relapsing to their old positions. If using a fixed retainer, be sure to brush and floss diligently in the space surrounding the wire, as the little nooks and crannies make it a favorite spot for plaque and debris! It’s important to angle your brush to reach the space behind your fixed retainer. Always brush thoroughly, but not so aggressively that you damage the wire! 

Even though it can present a bit of a challenge at first, it’s vital to floss regularly with your fixed retainer. Waterpiks or a floss threader can be a great tool to make it easier on you while ensuring a deep clean. It’s a good idea to avoid or moderate certain foods that can damage a fixed retainer, such as crunchy or sticky snacks, and keep up with regular dental visits to keep plaque and cavities under control.  

Be sure and come to Dr. Selden with any questions!

Hawley retainers

These may be what comes to mind when you think of retainers. 

Kept in place by a wire that wraps around the teeth, combined with an acrylic arch that rests against the roof of the mouth, the Hawley Retainer is removable. This makes cleaning a more straightforward prospect.   

Be sure to clean your Hawley Retainer daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove plaque and bacteria. Your removable retainer should always stay in its case when not in use. Go ahead and remove your retainer before eating and drinking. This simplifies clean-up and ensures your retainer stays hygienic and fresh!

Essix retainers

A newer option, and one that grows increasingly popular with dentists and orthodontists each year, the Essix Retainer is similar to clear aligners like Invisalign. Like Invisalign, they mold to the shape of your teeth. Also, like Invisalign, they’re a breeze to clean! Just pop them out before your morning and nightly brush sessions, being sure to dry them immediately, so saliva doesn’t have a chance to accrue. Then, you can brush your retainer right alongside your teeth! 

You can mix mild dish soap with water for an occasional deeper clean and periodically soak your Essix retainer in a specially-formulated solution such as Efferdent and Polident. 

Be sure and keep good track of your Essix. Just like a Hawley retainer, since you can remove it, you can lose it! It’s vital to always store your retainer in its case when not in use. 

Here are a few rapid-fire tips to remember: 

• If using a fixed retainer, be sure to brush and floss diligently in the space surrounding the wire, as the little nooks and crannies make it a favorite spot for plaque and debris!
• Your removable retainer should always stay in its case when not in use. 
• Go ahead and remove your retainer before eating and drinking. This simplifies clean-up and ensures your retainer stays hygienic and fresh!
• Cleaning your removable retainer is a cinch! Lightly brush and rinse with water. You can clean your retainer at the same time as you brush your teeth to keep things simple. Occasionally, you’ll want your retainer to soak in a fluid designed for a deeper clean.
• Be sure and avoid leaving your retainer in extreme heat, as this can warp the acrylic of a Hawley or the plastic of an Essix retainer. You should be removing your retainer to eat and drink anyway, but that goes double for hot food and drink
• Bring your retainer in with you when you come and see us so Dr. Selden can ensure that it’s in good order and that your post-active treatment is on track!

Let’s Get You Smiling, Today! 

One way to be sure your retainer is in great shape is to maintain your regularly-scheduled check-ups with Dr. Selden and the team. No matter whether you’re in Charlotte or Huntersville, we’ve always got a location near you to help you unlock your greatest smiles. 

So give us a call with any questions. We’re here to help, and we’re grateful to have the opportunity to serve the amazing people of the greater Charlotte area. See you soon! 

Posted by Dr. Selden