You made it through orthodontic treatment and your smile looks incredible — congratulations! Now, wearing your retainer is what keeps everything right where it should be.
The good news is that retainers are easy to take care of, and here at Squires Orthodontics in Pittsford, we make retainer care simple. Keep reading for some of our recommendations for retainer care.
Keeping Orthodontic Retainers Clean
Cleaning your retainer is important, as it ensures no buildup of plaque or bacteria.
For daily cleaning, we recommend:
- Use your toothbrush with a little toothpaste
- Gently brush your retainer to remove plaque
- Be gentle, not aggressive, with your brushing
A couple times a week, give your retainer a deeper clean:
- Use a separate, clean toothbrush
- Add a small amount of gentle dish soap or antibacterial soap
- Brush lightly to break down buildup
- Make sure you rinse it completely
Things to Avoid With Orthodontic Retainers
A few habits can shorten the lifespan of your retainer or cause it to need a replacement:
- Hot water or leaving it in a hot place (like a car) can warp it
- Wrapping it in a napkin can cause it to be thrown away accidentally
- Always keep it in its case when not in use!
- Skipping deep cleans and daily cleans leads to buildup, discoloration, and odor
How Long Do Retainers Last?
Most clear retainers last a few years, but their lifespan really depends on the person and how they are cared for day-to-day. While they are made from a durable plastic material, they’re not invincible. If you’re gentle with them, keep them clean, and handle them carefully, they’ll typically last longer. If you’re an aggressive grinder at night (bruxism) or tend to put more pressure on them, you’ll likely see an increased need to replace them.
Some wear and tear over time is completely normal, which may include slight cloudiness or small areas starting to thin out. If you start noticing cracks, holes, or anything that doesn’t look quite right, it’s a good idea to have them checked. We’re always happy to take a look, even if you just want to text us a photo — we can check them out and let you know if it’s time for a replacement.
Final Thoughts on Retainer Care
Your retainer doesn’t take much effort to be kept in good condition, and it plays a big role in keeping your smile where it should be.
Stay consistent with your habits, take care of your retainer, and if anything feels off or you need a replacement, just text or call us here at Squires Orthodontics in Pittsford.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retainer Care
Can I use toothpaste to clean my retainer?
Yes. As long as you are gentle and you aren’t using an abrasive whitening toothpaste, you can clean your retainer with toothpaste. The key is to be gentle. Abrasive whitening toothpastes may scratch your retainer.
How should my retainer fit?
Your retainer should be able to be put in with minimal resistance. It should feel easy to wear and not tight, which means it’s working! If your retainer starts to feel tight, ask us if you need an adjustment.
Why does my retainer smell?
If you’re noticing a slight smell from your retainer, it’s likely from plaque buildup and/or bacteria. A good deep cleaning usually fixes it quickly. You can purchase retainer cleaning tablets for a deeper clean, if needed.
What if I lose my retainer?
Don’t panic — retainers get lost all the time. The sooner you replace it, the better chance you’ll have for keeping your teeth in position. Call us immediately if you lose or break your retainer.