If you have recently been given a set of retainers of clear teeth aligners, you may be wondering how to properly clean them. Today, we’re breaking down the best tips and tricks for cleaning your aligners and retainers; continue reading to learn more.
Why Do I Need to Clean My Retainer or Aligner?
The mouth is home to naturally occurring levels of bacteria and acids that fluctuate due to both diet and hygienic care. Regular brushing and flossing twice daily – when paired with regular dental cleanings – helps ensure that the levels of bacteria and acids never become harmful to the teeth and gums.
When an individual wears a dental retainer or clear aligner trays, the bacteria transfer to the insides of the trays. If the trays are not regularly cleaned, they essentially become a breeding ground for bacteria, placing you at risk every time you insert them back into the mouth.
The truth is that even if you are keeping up with home care and your visits to the dental office, you face the risk of decay each time you re-insert a “dirty” aligner or retainer tray. Old and harmful bacteria that lingers inside of your aligner trays can immediately transfer to the enamel and begin to cause damage. That is why it is crucial to ensure that you are thoroughly and regularly cleaning your retainers and aligners.
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Cleaning Tips for Retainers
Clear dental aligners – such as Invisalign – are revolutionary in that they allow individuals to pursue orthodontic treatment discreetly and without significant interruption of their daily activities.
Dental retainers are provided after orthodontic treatment has been completed. They help ensure that the teeth do not shift out of their ideal positions as time passes.
To keep your dental aligners or retainers clean and free of harmful bacteria or plaque, you can follow these steps:
- Form a habit of cleaning the trays twice daily (each time you brush and floss)
- Take aligners out when drinking and eating
- Rinse aligners off before re-inserting into the mouth
- Avoid extremely hot or cold water while cleaning (to avoid bending or distorting the shape of the trays)
- Use a toothbrush to scrub out the trays once they have finished soaking
- Avoid eating or drinking while wearing your aligners and retainers.
CaliSmile Orthodontics: Best Orthodontist in Los Angeles County
Achieving your dream smile has never been so easy.
With over 17 years of experience in both cosmetic and orthodontic dentistry, Dr. Amir Dehghan is well-equipped to guide you through your orthodontic treatment in Los Angeles county.
We will work with you to build a treatment plan that best suits you and your lifestyle. Our state-of-the-art facility makes use of the newest and most advanced dental technology to provide our patients with top-tier service.
CaliSmile Orthodontics boasts beautiful and modern dental offices in both Encino and West Hills, California. For a comprehensive orthodontic consultation in one of our Los Angeles County dental offices, give us a call anytime at (310) 710-6527 or fill out our online appointment request form.
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