Tips for cleaning a retainer | |
Most people would never consider going days without brushing their teeth. As such, it is also important to wash a retainer. However, many retainer wearers go for long stretches of time without cleaning these devices. The same bacteria that build up on teeth can grow on a retainer. As a result, putting an unclean retainer in your mouth is like applying a bacteria and plaque-laden solution to the teeth and gums. If people do not know how to clean retainers, there are a few simple solutions described here that can help. However, an individual should always speak to their dentist or orthodontist first, if they have concerns about the cleanliness of their retainer. Here are eight tips for people to make sure their retainers are clean and free from bacteria. 1. Water for cleaning on the go Water will not clean a retainer on its own, but drinking plenty of water during the day can prevent bacteria overgrowth. Keeping a retainer moist will help prevent damage. Water also combats a dry mouth, which is linked to tooth decay. If a retainer feels dirty, a person can try swishing some water in their mouth a few times. Soda and other sugary drinks can affect a retainer, just as they affect the teeth. People should take their retainer out before enjoying a sugary drink and before eating anything. Retainers that dry out are more prone to damage. As a result, people should not allow this to happen, especially overnight. Instead, soak a retainer in distilled water, any time it is removed. If there is nothing available to store the retainer in, or if the retainer is dirty and cannot be cleaned right away, a person can soak it in a damp paper towel, until they can clean it. 2. Toothpaste When brushing teeth, people should brush their retainer as well. It is best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-whitening toothpaste. Afterward, remove the retainer and rinse it thoroughly. People should brush their teeth again after removing the retainer, to clean any areas covered by it. 3. Denture cleaner It is safe to clean a retainer with denture cleaner, from time to time, particularly if no other option is available. Over time, however, denture cleaner can turn a retainer yellow. To clean with denture cleaner, people should rinse the retainer and then allow it to soak in the denture cleaner for about 20 minutes. After taking it out, they should then gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush. If the retainer tastes like denture cleaner afterward, rinsing should continue until it no longer does. 4. Baking soda Baking soda is a safe, all-purpose disinfectant. It may also help whiten retainers that have yellowed. Baking soda controls bacteria without harsh chemicals and can prevent a retainer from developing pH imbalances that harm the mouth. To use baking soda, people should create a paste that is half water and half baking soda. The mixture should be thick enough to stick to the retainer. | |
| Target State: All States Target City : All Cities Last Update : Jan 18, 2024 9:25 AM Number of Views: 91 | Item Owner : Retain Your Smile Contact Email: Contact Phone: (208) 598-8607 |
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