🦷 How to Keep Your Retainers Clean: Expert Tips from Fresh Smiles Orthodontics Belmont
You’ve completed your orthodontic treatment — congratulations! Now that your braces or clear aligners are off, your retainers play a vital role in keeping your smile beautifully straight. But to make sure they stay fresh, clear, and effective, it’s important to know how to care for them properly.
At Fresh Smiles Orthodontics in Belmont, our team has put together some easy, dentist-approved tips and tricks to clean your retainers and keep them in great condition.
1. Clean Your Retainers Every Day
Bacteria and plaque can build up quickly, so cleaning your retainers daily is essential. Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water to gently brush away debris. Avoid using toothpaste — it’s too abrasive and can scratch your retainers, making them look cloudy and less hygienic.
2. Soak for a Deeper Clean
Once or twice a week, give your retainers a deeper clean by soaking them in a retainer or denture cleaning solution. These help to remove any lingering bacteria and odour. Always rinse thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.
💡 Fresh Smiles Tip: Avoid hot water or boiling, as heat can warp your retainers and change the fit.
3. Keep Them in Their Case
Whenever your retainers aren’t in your mouth, they should be in their protective case. This simple habit helps prevent loss, breakage, or contamination — especially during meals or travel.
4. Skip the Harsh Chemicals
Avoid soaking your retainers in alcohol, mouthwash, or bleach-based cleaners. These can damage the material and leave an unpleasant taste. Stick to gentle cleaning products made specifically for retainers or clear aligners.
5. Maintain Great Oral Hygiene
Your retainers will only stay as clean as your mouth! Brush and floss after meals to prevent bacteria from transferring to your retainers. This also helps maintain healthy gums and teeth post-treatment.
6. Bring Your Retainers to Every Appointment
At each orthodontic review, bring your retainers along so our team can check their fit and cleanliness. If you notice cracks, discolouration, or odour that doesn’t go away, it may be time for a professional clean or a replacement.
Keep Your Smile Fresh — for Life!
With a little daily care, your retainers will continue to protect your new smile for years to come. If you ever lose or damage your retainers, or just want advice on how to clean them safely, our friendly team at Fresh Smiles Orthodontics Belmont is always here to help.
✨ Book a retainer check or orthodontic review today — and keep your smile looking its best!
📍 Visit us at Fresh Smiles Orthodontics, 90 High Street, Belmont VIC
🌐 www.freshsmilesorthodontics.com.au