How to clean a clear retainer

Every day

Rinse the retainer with cool water as soon as you take it out. This clears away saliva and loose food before they dry on the plastic.

• Brush gently all over with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Use a small amount of mild, unscented soap, then rinse thoroughly.
• Wash your hands before handling it so oils and germs do not transfer to the plastic.
• Let it air-dry briefly before placing it in its case.

Around meals and drinks

Most orthodontic teams recommend removing a clear retainer before eating or drinking anything other than water. Trapped food and sugar feed the bacteria that cause odor and film.

• Brush your teeth before putting the retainer back in, so plaque is not sealed against your teeth.
• If you cannot clean it straight after a meal, rinse it with cool water as a minimum.

Every week

• Clean the case with warm, not hot, water and mild soap, then let it air-dry.
• Use only the deep-cleaning method your orthodontic team has approved.
• While cleaning, look the retainer over for cracks, cloudiness, or rough edges.

What to avoid

Clear plastic can warp in hot water, a dishwasher, or a hot car, and a warped retainer may no longer fit. Harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners can leave tiny scratches where plaque then gathers.

• Hot or boiling water
• Bleach or strong household cleaners
• Abrasive powders and scouring pads

Storage

Keep the retainer dry in a clean, labeled case whenever it is out of your mouth. Avoid wrapping it in a napkin or tissue, which is one of the most common ways retainers end up in the bin. Keep the case away from pets and out of direct sunlight.

If you have a Hawley or fixed retainer

This guide focuses on clear retainers. A Hawley retainer should be brushed around its wire, and a fixed retainer needs a floss threader or interdental brush to clean behind the wire. Your orthodontic team can show you the right tools.