How to Clean a Clear Retainer

Clear plastic retainers are used by children and adults alike to help further align teeth after braces. A child may also have one tooth that needs a little tweaking and will have to wear a retainer while sleeping to remedy the situation. These retainers are specially molded to fit the wearer's mouth exactly and can be quite expensive. Retainers can easily become knocked over, dropped or accidentally thrown into the garbage. It is important to properly clean a retainer to ensure that any germs picked up are washed away.

Things You'll Need

• Luke warm water
• 2 small bowls
• Castile soap
• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• 4 cups mouthwash

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Instructions

• 1

  Rinse the retainer thoroughly with luke warm water. Avoid using hot water as this could warp the plastic.

• 2

  Fill a small bowl with 4 cups of water. Add a few ounces of castile soap to the bowl. Place the retainer into the bowl.

• 3

  Allow the retainer to soak in the soapy water for at least 15 minutes.

• 4

  Place a few ounces of toothpaste onto a toothbrush and scrub the retainer after it has been taken out of the soapy water.

• 5

  Pour 4 cups of mouthwash into a small bowl. Place the retainer into the bowl and allow it to soak overnight.

• 6

  Remove the retainer from the bowl and rinse it with luke warm water.