How to Clean Retainers

Keep Your Smile Beautiful — For Life

Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Wearing and caring for your retainers is the key to maintaining your beautiful new smile, and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Dr. Sacks is one of the top Invisalign and LightForce Braces providers in the country, with over 700 5‑star Google reviews from happy patients. But his care doesn’t stop when the braces or aligners come off. Because it’s not just about achieving immediate results. It’s about keeping those results and loving your smile for life.

That’s why retainers matter so much, and why we take the time to make sure you know exactly how to care for them properly. Here’s everything you need to know about how to clean retainers at home, how to care for retainers after braces, and keeping your smile healthy for years to come.

What Are Retainers?

Retainers are appliances used to keep your teeth straight after your braces have been removed or your Invisalign treatment is complete.

Some retainers are removable, while others are cemented in place. The type of retainer you’ve been given has been chosen specifically for you, based on your treatment and your needs. Without your retainer, your teeth could slowly shift back toward their original position, undoing all the progress you’ve made.

We worked hard as a team to get your teeth straight. Let’s keep them that way!

When Should You Wear Your Retainer?

Generally, Dr. Sacks recommends wearing your retainer full‑time for the first week — 24/7, removing it only to eat or clean it. After that, you’ll wear it nightly for life.

Dr. Sacks’ motto is:
“NIGHT TIME FOR A LIFE TIME”

Always follow the specific instructions we give you, and never stop wearing your retainer without talking to Dr. Sacks first.

How to Clean Your Retainers

Daily cleaning is essential to prevent bacteria, plaque, and odor from building up on your retainer.

✅ CLEANING STEPS:

• Rinse your retainer with lukewarm water as soon as you remove it.
• Gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid toothpaste, which can scratch it.
• Use retainer cleaning tablets or crystals weekly for a deeper clean.
• If you have a cemented (permanent) retainer, brush and floss around it daily, using a floss threader to reach all areas.
• Rinse thoroughly before putting it back in your mouth.

🚫 DON’T:

• Soak your retainer in liquid for prolonged periods.
• Leave it in a hot car or near heat sources.
• Boil it in hot water.
• Wrap it in napkins (it can get thrown away).
• Leave it where pets can reach it (dogs love to chew them because they smell like you!).

Getting Used to Retainers

Wearing a retainer is easy, but it may take a few days to get used to. At first, it might feel awkward to talk or swallow — just like when you started braces or Invisalign. The more you wear it, the sooner you’ll get comfortable!

How often should I clean my retainer?

At least once a day — and rinse it every time you take it out.

Can I use toothpaste on my retainer?

No. Toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch your retainer.

How do I clean my retainer case?

Wash it daily with warm, soapy water and let it air‑dry.

Should I soak my retainer in mouthwash?

No. Alcohol in mouthwash can damage your retainer. Use proper cleaning tablets instead (like the ones we provide at Sacks Orthodontics).

Can I boil my retainer to disinfect it?

No. High heat can warp and ruin your retainer.

What’s the best way to store my retainer?

In its case, away from heat, sunlight, and pets.

How do I know if my retainer is damaged?

If it feels loose, cracked, or uncomfortable, call us right away.

Ready for a Check‑In?

If you’ve lost or broken your retainer, if it no longer fits properly, or if you just have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

With many years of experience and over 700 5‑star Google reviews, Dr. Sacks is one of the top Invisalign and LightForce Braces providers in the country. And he’s just as committed to keeping your smile beautiful for life as he was to creating it.

Contact us today — we’re here to help you love your smile for a lifetime!