Retainer Cleaning and Care: Daily Routine and Storage

How do you clean a removable retainer?

1. Take the retainer out and rinse it with lukewarm (not hot) water.
2. Gently brush the surface with a soft toothbrush; you can use a small amount of liquid hand soap if needed.
3. Rinse the soap off thoroughly.
4. Put the retainer back in after brushing your teeth.

Ask your orthodontist how often to clean it and which products you can use; their advice also applies to any suitable cleaning tablets. For a card on which you can tick off the daily steps, see the daily care card.

What should you avoid?

• Hot or boiling water, the dishwasher, the hob and heat sources such as the inside of a car parked in the sun can warp the aligner.
• Abrasive toothpastes can scratch the surface; scratches can increase build-up and staining.
• Bleach, products containing alcohol and harsh cleaners can damage the aligner.
• Do not wrap the retainer in a napkin or tissue; being thrown away with the rubbish is a very common reason for loss.

Where should it be stored?

Whenever it is not in your mouth, put it in its case straight away. Keep the case in your bag or pocket. Pets can chew retainers, so keep the case out of their reach.

What can you eat and drink with a retainer in?

While a removable retainer is in, only plain water should be drunk. Take the retainer out and put it in its case before eating and before other drinks; after eating, brush your teeth and put it back in.

Cleaning a fixed retainer

Tartar can build up around a fixed wire. Cleaning every day with a floss threader or an interdental brush is recommended. For details: Fixed retainer care and problems.

When travelling

Carry the retainer case in your hand luggage; for what to do if an aligner is lost or broken, see clear aligners when travelling.

For more information, see the retainer guide and the retention treatment page.

For questions, you can call 0312 911 60 36 or use the form on the contact page.

This page is for general information only; your orthodontist decides the type of retainer, the wear schedule and how often you are seen for check-ups.