Regular retainer use after your Invisalign treatment in Springfield, IL will prevent your teeth from moving back toward their original location. This is an essential part of the treatment process. Don’t worry; you will soon be able to graduate to retainer use at night only.
An easy way to keep your retainer clean is to brush it with a soft-bristled brush every time you brush your teeth – morning and night.
As with your natural teeth, your retainer can collect tartar, bacteria, and unpleasant odors. Keeping it clean will give you a clean mouth and fresher breath. Keeping it away from pets is essential too, as they can destroy a retainer in a matter of seconds.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water will not remove tartar from the retainer, but it will help to keep your saliva flow sufficient and rinse away any food particles that could cause bad breath.
Use Non-Whitening Toothpaste
When cleaning your retainer with toothpaste, be sure to use a soft brush and a non-whitening toothpaste, which often contains abrasives. Abrasives can scratch the surface of your retainer and create a harbor for bacteria.
Look for Build-Up
If you feel rough patches on your retainer, this could be tartar build-up, which often has a cloudy appearance. You can soak your retainer in plain white vinegar, which dissolves minerals, and then gently brush away the residue.
Commercial Retainer Cleaner
While it is not always necessary, retainer cleaner or denture cleaner can give your appliance a sparkling fresh feeling. This might benefit your confidence and your retainer’s smell if you feel like you need it.
Bring Your Retainer to Your Appointments
We will be happy to check your retainer for fit and to examine it for any damage to make sure it is functioning properly. Above all else, be sure to wear it as directed to protect your investment in Invisalign treatment in Springfield, IL.