Caring for Your Retainer
You’ve worked hard for your new smile, and our team at Kittleson Orthodontics will to help you keep it that way! Follow these simple retainer instructions to learn how to clean a retainer, tips for caring for it, and how you can maintain your results for years to come.
Essix Retainer Instructions
Essix retainers have some key differences from traditional wire retainers. To best care for your retainer, follow these guidelines:
- Only drink water when wearing your retainer. Drinking anything other than water with your retainer can allow liquid to sit on your teeth, causing decay.
- Brush your retainer with hand soap. Traditional toothpaste is abrasive and could cause your retainer to become cloudy.
- Always put your retainers directly into the case. Since they're clear, Essix retainers can be hard to find when left lying around.
- Always rinse your retainers before putting them in.
Placing the Essix
- Line up the retainers with your teeth, then gently push them into place with your fingers.
- Do NOT bite the retainer into place, as this can cause the retainer to crack.
Essix Removal
- On one side of your mouth, use your fingertip on the inside of the back molar and slowly pull on the retainer.
- Repeat on the other side.
- Once the retainer is disengaged from the back molars on both sides, you should be able to slowly remove it.
Maintain Your Smile for Life
Have questions about your retainer? Call Kittleson Orthodontics, and we’ll help you maintain your new smile for life.
How to Clean an Essix Retainer
Keeping your Essix retainer clean is just as important as wearing it. These clear, removable retainers are great for maintaining your smile, but they can also collect bacteria, plaque, and odors if not cleaned regularly.
The good news? Cleaning them is simple and doesn’t take much time. Here’s how to keep your Essix retainer fresh and clear:
Rinse Right Away
Always rinse your retainer with cool or lukewarm water as soon as you take it out. This helps wash away saliva and prevents buildup. Avoid hot water—it can warp the plastic and change the fit.
Brush Gently (No Toothpaste!)
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush your retainer at least once a day. Don’t use toothpaste—it’s too abrasive and can scratch the surface, making the retainer look cloudy and more prone to trapping bacteria. Instead, use mild dish soap or a retainer-specific cleaner.
Soak Regularly
Once or twice a week, give your Essix retainer a deeper clean by soaking it in a retainer cleaning solution or a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water for about 15–20 minutes. This helps remove any lingering odors or calcium buildup. After soaking, brush and rinse it thoroughly.
Store It Dry
Always let your retainer air dry completely before putting it back in its case. A damp retainer stored in a closed container is a perfect environment for bacteria and mold to grow.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Never use bleach, alcohol-based mouthwash, or household cleaners. These can damage the plastic and make your retainer unsafe to wear.
Keep the Case Clean Too
A clean retainer should go in a clean case! Rinse and dry your case daily, and give it a good scrub with soap and water a few times a week.
Long-Term Maintenance
If you ever notice your retainer starting to look cloudy, develop a bad smell, or feel sticky even after cleaning, give us a call. We can help you determine whether it needs a more thorough cleaning—or if it’s time for a replacement.