5 Retainer Tips from Meyer Ortho

Did you just get a new retainer and are looking for ways to keep it new and shiny? Or maybe you’ve had a retainer for years and are looking for a way to spruce it up? Read on for some retainer tips from the team at Meyer Orthodontics.

Tip #1: Keep your retainer clean.

We have already covered some great ways to keep your retainer clean but we want to share some new tips on this subject. Using clean crystals (such as Retainer Brite) to soak your retainer overnight can help to remove tartar build-up and stains effectively.

Tip #2: Avoid sugar and over cleaning

Avoid drinking anything but tap water while wearing your retainer so no sugar is trapped underneath the plastic where saliva cannot remove it. Also, avoid scrubbing too intensely; over cleaning can scratch the plastic making the retainer cloudy.

Tip #3: Soften rough spots.

If your retainer feels a bit rough or has some slightly sharp edges, you can use an emery board to soften those spots. Be gentle with your filing!

Tip #4: Avoid heat.

Although we clean our dishes in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning, it’s not a good idea to clean your retainer in the dishwasher. It will melt it! Also, avoid placing next to an oven or candle.

Tip #5: Don’t wrap your retainer in a napkin at lunch.

You WILL throw it away or forget it in the lunchroom. Classic! 😉