Orthodontic retainers play a vital role in maintaining the alignment of your teeth after braces or Invisalign. Regular cleaning is essential to keep them clean and hygienic. Retainers are exposed to saliva, plaque and bacteria daily, which can lead to odour, staining and even oral health issues if not properly maintained.
There are different types of retainers, and each requires specific care to ensure longevity and hygiene. Whether you have a Hawley retainer, a clear plastic retainer (Essix or Vivera) or a fixed (bonded) retainer, following the right cleaning methods will help prevent bacterial buildup, plaque accumulation and unwanted damage.
Types of Retainers
Orthodontic retainers come in three main types: Hawley retainers, clear plastic retainers (Essix or Vivera) and fixed (bonded) retainers. Hawley retainers have a durable acrylic base with a metal wire, while clear plastic retainers are thin, transparent trays that fit snugly over teeth. Fixed retainers consist of a thin metal wire bonded to the back of the front teeth and require special care since they cannot be removed.
How to Clean Your Retainers
Proper cleaning is essential to maintain the longevity and hygiene of your orthodontic retainer. Each type of retainer requires a specific cleaning routine to prevent plaque buildup, odour and bacteria accumulation.
Hawley Retainers (Wire and Acrylic)
Hawley retainers consist of a durable acrylic base with a metal wire that holds the teeth in place. Since both materials can trap bacteria and plaque, daily cleaning is essential.
How to Clean:
Immediately after removal, rinse the retainer under lukewarm running water to remove saliva and food debris before they harden. Use a separate toothbrush (not your regular one) with mild liquid soap or non-whitening toothpaste and gently scrub both the acrylic and wire. Focus on the crevices and edges where bacteria can collect, ensuring all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned. Once finished, rinse the retainer under lukewarm water again to remove any remaining soap or toothpaste residue before placing it back in your mouth.
What to Avoid:
Exposing the retainer to hot water can distort the acrylic, making it uncomfortable or ineffective. Alcohol-based mouthwashes should also be avoided, as they can dry out the acrylic, leading to cracks or brittleness. Additionally, whitening or tartar-control toothpastes should not be used, as they contain abrasive particles that can scratch the acrylic, making it more prone to bacterial growth.
Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix and Vivera)
Clear plastic retainers are transparent trays that fit snugly over the teeth. Unlike Hawley retainers, they are more delicate and prone to scratches, which can harbour bacteria and cause cloudiness.
How to Clean:
After removal, rinse the retainer under lukewarm water to wash away saliva and prevent plaque buildup. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild, non-abrasive soap, gently clean all surfaces of the retainer, paying extra attention to the interior, which collects bacteria from saliva. Since regular toothpaste can cause micro-scratches, it should not be used for cleaning. After brushing, rinse the retainer thoroughly under lukewarm water to remove any soap residue before reinserting it.
What to Avoid:
Hot water should never be used, as it can warp the plastic and cause the retainer to lose its shape. Whitening toothpaste is also unsuitable, as it contains abrasive particles that damage the plastic, leading to cloudiness and making it more prone to bacteria buildup. Additionally, scrubbing too hard when brushing can create small scratches that make the retainer harder to keep clean over time.
Fixed (Bonded) Retainers
Fixed retainers consist of a thin metal wire bonded to the back of the front teeth. Since they cannot be removed, they require thorough cleaning to prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to cavities or gum inflammation.
How to Clean:
Brushing thoroughly around the retainer with a soft toothbrush is essential to remove plaque and food debris. The bristles should be angled to clean both the front and back of the wire effectively. Since flossing can be more challenging with a fixed retainer, using floss threaders or interdental brushes is the best way to clean between the teeth and around the wire. A water flosser can also help flush out food particles from hard-to-reach areas, ensuring the space around the retainer stays clean.
What to Avoid:
Failing to floss regularly can lead to plaque buildup, bad breath, and gum disease. Skipping professional cleanings also increases the risk of tartar forming in areas that are difficult to clean at home. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush is not recommended, as stiff bristles can irritate the gums and potentially damage the bonded adhesive.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Proper care ensures that your retainer stays hygienic and lasts as long as possible. Many people unknowingly damage their retainers or create bacterial buildup by making avoidable mistakes. Here are some common errors and how to prevent them.
Skipping Daily Cleaning
Retainers collect plaque, bacteria, and food particles throughout the day. Failing to clean them regularly can lead to odour, staining, and bacterial growth, which may affect your oral health. To prevent this, always rinse and clean your retainer after each use.
Using Hot Water
Exposing retainers to hot water can warp the plastic, causing them to lose their shape and fit improperly. Always use lukewarm or cool water when rinsing, soaking, or cleaning your retainer.
Brushing with Toothpaste
Many toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients that can scratch clear plastic retainers, making them more prone to bacterial buildup. Instead of toothpaste, use a mild liquid soap and a soft toothbrush for daily cleaning.
Soaking in Harsh Chemicals
Some people soak their retainers in alcohol-based mouthwashes, bleach or hydrogen peroxide, thinking it will disinfect them. However, these chemicals can weaken the material and cause irritation when placed in the mouth. Stick to vinegar-water solutions, baking soda mixtures or retainer-safe cleaning tablets for deep cleaning.
Leaving Retainers in Napkins or Tissues
Many retainers are accidentally thrown away when placed in napkins or tissues during meals. Instead of wrapping it in paper, always store your retainer in its protective case when not in use.
Neglecting Flossing with Fixed Retainers
Food particles and plaque can accumulate around fixed (bonded) retainers, leading to cavities and gum inflammation. If you have a bonded retainer, floss daily using floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean around the wire properly.
Skipping Regular Dental Check-Ups
Over time, retainers can wear down, become loose, or collect stubborn plaque. Seeing your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings helps ensure your retainer remains in good condition and continues to function properly.
