i have a question about my retainers!!?

Question

Hi...i just had a question about my retainer. I got a top and bottom retainer, both with wires, (not permanent, or cemented) after i got my braces off. I've had the retainers for about 6 months now, and ive tried, and tried to keep them clean. It hasnt worked very well. I've soaked them in mouthwash, scrubbed them with a new toothbrush and they are still gross!!! i know they wont be perfectly clean, but i was just wondering...what do you guys do 2 clean them!!!

Answer 1

There are several products on the market that you can use to soak your retainers, but you should be wearing them all the time right now. Try brushing the retainers every time you brush your teeth and always brush your teeth after eating anything before putting the retainers back in your mouth. It's usually the food left in your mouth and on your teeth that contribute to the staining and build up on the retainers. To remove what's built up on them now the fastest and easiest way is to ask your dentist if they will put them in their denture cleanser and drop them in the ultrasonic machine for a cleaning. You don't necessarily have to have an appointment for that and it takes just a few minutes. Just call and ask the receptionist if they would mind cleaning them for you. I've done this for our ortho patients plenty of times and we don't charge for this service. Once we get them clean for you, then you can do the rest by brushing and not putting them in after eating without cleaning your mouth first. Hope I've been of some help. Good luck!

Answer 2

I used to be an Orthodontic assitant and we always suggested cleaning them with denture soak like Efferdent. It sounds weird but it is the way to go. Do NOT soak them in mouthwash...it will actually mess up the retainer. Also make sure you take them out of your mouth when you eat. This may sound silly, and you may already be doing it, but be sure you do this.
One more thing...you can never give up wearing your retainers completely. I am sure your orthodontist told you this, but in case they didn't. After you get to knock down a day at a time always try to wear them at least one night a week overnight as you sleep. Of course you are nowhere near that yet. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

you can buy denture cleaners like Polident, drop a tablet in water and soak the retainers in them overnight. or if you want to use products you can find at home, you can soak the retainers in vinegar for a few hours to soften the deposits, then brush it off. Polident is more safe for the retainers though.. =)