How to Deep Clean Plastic Retainers

To deep clean plastic retainers and avoid yellowing and bad breath, use a purple persulfate-free retainer cleaner. This cleaner effectively removes stains and bacteria, ensuring your retainer stays fresh and hygienic.

Why Deep Clean Your Plastic Retainers?

Prevent Bacterial Build-Up

• Oral Health: Regular deep cleaning prevents harmful bacteria that can lead to infections and bad breath.
• Hygiene: Ensures that your retainers are safe and sanitary to wear.

Maintain Retainer Condition

• Durability: Keeps retainers in good condition, extending their lifespan.
• Appearance: Prevents discoloration and keeps retainers looking clear and new.

Tools and Ingredients for Deep Cleaning

Essential Cleaning Tools

• Soft Toothbrush: For gently scrubbing the retainer.
• Retainer Case: For safe storage when not in use.
• Clean Towel: For drying the retainer after cleaning.

Cleaning Ingredients

• Baking Soda: Natural abrasive and deodorizer.
• White Vinegar: Effective antimicrobial agent.
• Hydrogen Peroxide: Disinfectant and stain remover.
• Lemon Juice: Natural acidic cleaner.
• Essential Oils: For a fresh scent and antimicrobial properties.

Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning Process

1. Initial Rinse

Why Rinse?

• Remove Debris: Rinsing helps to remove any loose particles and saliva.
• Prepare for Cleaning: Makes the deep cleaning process more effective.

How to Rinse

• Step 1: Remove the retainer from your mouth.
• Step 2: Rinse it under lukewarm running water for about 30 seconds.

2. Brushing with Baking Soda

Why Use Baking Soda?

• Natural Cleaner: Gentle on the retainer while effectively cleaning.
• Deodorizer: Neutralizes odors.

How to Brush with Baking Soda

• Ingredients: 2 teaspoons of baking soda, a soft toothbrush, water.
• Instructions:
  1. Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.
  2. Use the soft toothbrush to gently scrub all surfaces of the retainer with the paste.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

3. Soak in White Vinegar Solution

Why Soak in Vinegar?

• Disinfectant: Kills bacteria and fungi.
• Dissolves Deposits: Helps remove mineral deposits and tartar.

How to Soak in Vinegar

• Ingredients: Equal parts white vinegar and warm water.
• Instructions:
  1. Mix the vinegar and water in a small bowl or cup.
  2. Submerge the retainer in the solution for 15-30 minutes.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove any vinegar residue.

4. Soak in Hydrogen Peroxide Solution

Why Use Hydrogen Peroxide?

• Stain Removal: Helps whiten and remove stains.
• Disinfection: Kills bacteria effectively.

How to Soak in Hydrogen Peroxide

• Ingredients: Equal parts 3% hydrogen peroxide and water.
• Instructions:
  1. Mix hydrogen peroxide with water in a cup.
  2. Soak the retainer for 10-15 minutes.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with water.

5. Lemon Juice Soak (Optional)

Why Use Lemon Juice?

• Natural Cleaner: Breaks down plaque and tartar.
• Fresh Scent: Leaves a pleasant citrus aroma.

How to Soak in Lemon Juice

• Ingredients: 1 part lemon juice, 3 parts water.
• Instructions:
  1. Mix lemon juice and water in a cup.
  2. Soak the retainer for 15-20 minutes.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with water to remove acidic residue.

6. Final Rinse and Dry

Why Rinse and Dry?

• Remove Residue: Ensures no cleaning solution remains on the retainer.
• Prevent Damage: Proper drying prevents bacterial growth and material degradation.

How to Rinse and Dry

• Step 1: Rinse the retainer thoroughly under lukewarm water.
• Step 2: Pat dry with a clean towel or allow it to air dry completely before storing.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Retainer

Daily Maintenance

• Rinse After Use: Always rinse your retainer with water after removing it.
• Brush Gently: Brush the retainer daily with a soft toothbrush.

Weekly Deep Cleaning

• Regular Soaking: Incorporate a deep cleaning soak once a week using one of the methods above.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use bleach or alcohol-based products on your retainer.

Proper Storage

• Dry Thoroughly: Ensure your retainer is dry before storing it in its case.
• Use a Case: Always store your retainer in a clean, ventilated case.

Conclusion

Regular deep cleaning of plastic retainers is essential for maintaining oral hygiene and prolonging the retainer's lifespan. 

Are you currently using or thinking about using retainer cleaning tablets? It's important to be aware that certain cleaner brands have the potential to cause toxic reactions.

It's crucial to be aware of harmful ingredients hiding in common cleaner brands. One such persulfate, which can pose SERIOUS health risks and is found in almost all leading retainer cleaners brands. Moreover, persulfate's health risks potentially impact respiratory health and skin sensitivities in your family, especially in teens and sensitive individuals. Learn more about the risk of persulfate HERE. 

Disclaimer:

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The author and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the information provided in this article.