We all know that having good oral hygiene leads to a healthy mouth. And it is even more important when you have Invisalign retainers that can see things like discoloration, odor, and a buildup of bacteria if not cared for properly. Besides, orthodontic treatment is an investment so caring for your retainers is highly encouraged.
There is a good chance your orthodontist has given you instructions for cleaning your Invisalign retainers. But, just in case you need a refresher, here’s what you need to know.
Steps to Clean Invisalign Retainers
Invisalign retainers don’t take a lot of work to clean. In fact, it should only take you a couple of minutes.
Rinse your retainers. Remove your retainers from your mouth and rinse them in cool or lukewarm water. This not only works to rinse away saliva but bacteria as well.
Brush your retainers. Gently use your soft-bristled toothbrush (or a retainer toothbrush if you prefer) and toothpaste and work your way around the surface of the retainers using small, circular motions. Brush both the inside and the outside. Rinse with cool or lukewarm water. DO NOT brush too hard as you can leave visible etchings on the surface.
Brush and floss your teeth. Before you reinsert your clean Invisalign retainers into your mouth, be sure to thoroughly brush and floss your teeth. Or, if you are choosing not to wear them, store them in a proper container once they are clean.
What Not To Do
When it comes to your Invisalign retainers, there are a few things you should not do - and products you should not use - when cleaning them. Any harsh products or chemicals can cause damage to your retainers. Avoid the following:
- Abrasive toothpaste. Always use non-abrasive toothpaste and those without whitening promises as these can scratch the surface of your retainer.
- Mouthwash. You can use mouthwash while you are not wearing your retainers, but soaking your retainers in mouthwash may stain them.
- Hot water. You may naturally think that hot water or boiling water will kill any bacteria or germs on the retainers. However, it can actually leave them distorted and improperly fitted.
- Denture cleaner. Like some toothpaste, denture cleaner can be way too abrasive and can change the appearance of your retainers, making them look dull.
Cleaning Invisalign Retainers
Your Invisalign retainers need to be cleaned regularly - as in every time you brush your teeth. And you should be brushing your teeth at least twice each day. Though brushing after every meal is highly encouraged.
It doesn’t take long at all to clean your retainers, but making it a part of your daily routine by joining it to your teeth brushing can easily make it a habit - a healthy habit, that is.
Know this - the better you care for your Invisalign retainers, the better success you will have with your orthodontic treatment plan and reach that beautiful smile.
Discover More About Invisalign Retainers at Lindenwold Dental Center
If you are interested in Invisalign retainers or are ready to see if they are a great option for you, then contact Lindenwold Dental Center. Our professional team can do a thorough examination of your teeth and put together a treatment plan of the best options.
Contact Lindenwold Dental Center at 856-783-3777. Or request an appointment online.