The last thing you want to hear is that you need more metal in your mouth after your braces are removed. But, retainers are a necessity in preserving the smile you worked so hard for. And, when you keep your retainers clean, you keep your smile clean as well. Here are some ways to disinfect your retainer so it’s ready to be worn every day.
Always keep them moist. Never let your retainers dry out. Your retainers should either be in your mouth or in a container of distilled water.
Brush them. You can’t soak your retainers in distilled water and expect them to get clean on their own. You’ll need to brush them every few days or as needed to prevent tartar buildup.
Bring them to your dentist. While this step may not be required for everyone, if your retainers end up with a large amount of buildup, your dentist has a tool that can disinfect them safely without any chemicals or damage.
Baking soda is your friend. Baking soda increases the pH in your mouth, which can keep the bacteria at bay. Baking soda is also a natural, safe, and effective way to combat any odors.
You should always avoid:
•Dishwashers.
•Boiling water.
•Mouthwash.
•Retainer cleansers and tablets.