How to Care for Your Retainer

To maintain a healthy smile and protect the investment you made into your orthodontic treatment, proper care of your dental retainer is essential. Retainers play a crucial role in keeping your teeth aligned after your braces are taken off and preventing them from shifting back to their original positions.

Read through our John S Walker DMD tips for caring for this important orthodontic device and contact us in Boulder, CO, for more advice! Let us help you ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your retainer.

Handle With Care

Always handle your retainer with clean hands to prevent the transfer of bacteria and debris. Avoid bending or twisting it, as this can alter the shape and potentially compromise its function. If it does get bent out of shape, contact us for retainer repair!

Clean Properly

Regular cleaning is vital to prevent the buildup of plaque, tartar, and bacteria. Remove your retainer and rinse it under lukewarm water after each use. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the retainer. Brush it gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.

Store Properly

When you're not wearing your retainer, store it in its designated case to protect it from damage. Avoid wrapping it in tissue or placing it directly in your pocket or bag, as this can lead to breakage or loss.

Keep Away From Heat

Retainers are heat-sensitive, so never expose them to excessive heat. Avoid leaving them in direct sunlight, near hot surfaces, or in hot water, as this can cause warping or distortion. Don’t go through all the hard work of orthodontic treatment only to damage your retainer!

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brush and floss your teeth before wearing your retainer to prevent bacteria and food particles from getting trapped between the retainer and your teeth. This will help keep it clean and odor-free.

Maintain Your Retainer With Our Boulder Orthodontists

Caring for your dental retainer is essential for maintaining good oral health and protecting the investment you made in orthodontic treatment. Follow these tips for proper retainer care and contact our John S Walker DMD team to make an appointment!

Tags: orthodontic treatment retainer straight teeth retainer care