While everyone looks forward to the day they will get their braces off, it is important to remember that using your retainer is critical for keeping your smile perfect. If you don’t utilize your retainer, you run the risk of your teeth moving back into their original position. Retainers require daily care to keep them clean and sanitary, so make sure to follow the right steps for cleaning. Today, Dr. Harrison’s team will give some tips for keeping your retainer clean.
Rinse When Possible
As is true with any cleaning task, the best way to keep your retainer from getting nasty is to clean it whenever possible. You don’t even need to deep clean it every time. Anytime you have the chance, take the opportunity to quickly rinse your retainer under clean water. Whether it is after a meal or while getting ready for bed, rinsing your retainer can go a long way towards keeping it clean.
Related Post: What To Know About Invisalign
Keep Clear Of Food
The quickest way to watch your retainer go from nice and clean to gross and dirty is to allow food into the equation. Dr. Harrison offers clear guidance here: it is important to keep your retainer clear of food, and that includes candy and gum. This is especially important for people with Invisalign retainers because food can easily get trapped inside crevices in your retainer.
When you eat — even small snacks — make sure that you remove your retainer. Furthermore, make sure that you thoroughly rinse your mouth before putting your retainer back in after eating. You should also remove your retainer before drinking beverages other than water, because sugary drinks have the same effect as snacks.
Let Your Retainer Soak
If you want to keep your retainer fresh, you can’t go wrong with allowing it to soak regularly. You can buy retainer cleaners and allow them to soak overnight, according to the instructions on the box. You can also use other remedies, like letting your retainer soak in mouthwash for 2-3 minutes or vinegar for 20 minutes. These are easy ways to keep your retainer clean on a daily basis. If you would like further advice on how to clean your retainer, you can ask Dr. Harrison on your next visit.
Related Post: Braces or Invisalign?
Contact Dr. Harrison For More Retainer Tips
Keeping up with your retainer can be tough, but Dr. Harrison is here to help you. If you need tips or information on how to clean your retainer, give Dr. Harrison a call at (417) 887-1220 or contact us online today.
