Dental retainers, whether Hawley or clear thermoplastic types, preserve the results of orthodontic treatment. Since these devices spend many hours in the mouth, they collect bacteria, saliva, and plaque, requiring regular cleaning. Many users consider soaking retainers in mouthwash, as it is designed to disinfect the oral environment. However, the chemical composition of many commercial mouthwashes poses a distinct risk to the materials used in dental retainers. Selecting the correct cleaning agent is important for maintaining the retainer’s structural integrity and ensuring oral health.
Why Common Mouthwash Ingredients Damage Retainers
Soaking retainers in standard, commercial mouthwash is generally discouraged by dental professionals due to the damaging ingredients they contain. A primary concern is the alcohol found in many antiseptic mouthwashes. Alcohol acts as a drying agent that degrades the clear, plastic polymers over time, leading to brittleness. This degradation can cause the thermoplastic material to weaken, develop micro-cracks, or warp, compromising the appliance’s fit and effectiveness.
Many popular mouthwashes also contain strong dyes. These coloring agents can transfer to the porous plastic of the retainer, resulting in permanent staining or discoloration. Certain antiseptic compounds, such as chlorhexidine gluconate, a common ingredient in some prescription mouthwashes, are also known to cause yellow-brown staining on dental materials. Furthermore, some mouthwashes are acidic, and prolonged exposure to low pH levels can negatively affect the metal components, such as the wires and clasps, found in Hawley-type retainers.
While mouthwash eliminates bacteria and odors, the potential for material degradation and discoloration outweighs this benefit for routine soaking. The chemicals can also leave residues on the porous surface, which may be harmful if ingested or cause gum irritation. It is safer to rely on cleaning methods specifically formulated or recommended for the materials of oral appliances.
Dentist-Recommended Daily Cleaning Methods
The safest approach to daily retainer maintenance involves simple, non-abrasive cleaning methods. Immediately rinsing the retainer under lukewarm water after removal helps prevent saliva and plaque from drying and hardening onto the surface. This quick rinse should be followed by a gentle, thorough brushing at least once a day.
A dedicated soft-bristled toothbrush or specialized retainer brush should be used exclusively for this purpose. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as most formulas contain abrasive particles designed to scrub tooth enamel. These abrasives create microscopic scratches on the plastic surface, which become breeding grounds for bacteria and worsen discoloration.
Instead of toothpaste, dental professionals recommend using a mild, non-abrasive cleanser, such as clear liquid dish soap or non-medicated liquid castile soap. These soaps effectively break down the sticky biofilm without damaging the material. Apply a small amount of soap to the brush and gently scrub all surfaces of the retainer, including inside curves and any metal components.
After brushing, the retainer must be rinsed thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all soap residue. Using lukewarm water is important, as excessively hot water can permanently warp the thermoplastic material, destroying the custom fit. Proper daily cleaning prevents the buildup that leads to odors and discoloration, preserving the appliance and oral hygiene.
Solutions for Biofilm and Heavy Mineral Buildup
Daily brushing is generally sufficient, but retainers require occasional deeper cleaning to address stubborn deposits. Biofilm, or dental plaque, is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on the surface. Over time, this biofilm can mineralize due to elements in saliva, forming hard deposits known as calculus or tartar. These deposits require more than a light scrub to remove.
Specialized retainer or denture cleaning tablets are an effective solution for deep cleaning, typically recommended for use once a week. These effervescent tablets dissolve in water to create a sanitizing solution that breaks down organic matter and kills bacteria. When using these tablets, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding soaking time (often 15 to 30 minutes) and rinse the retainer well afterward.
For a non-commercial alternative, a solution of distilled white vinegar mixed with water combats mineral buildup, as the mild acid helps dissolve calcified deposits. A common ratio is a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and warm water, with a recommended soak time of 15 to 30 minutes. Another option is a paste made from baking soda and water, which serves as a gentle disinfectant and mild abrasive to scrub away surface film. In all cases, the retainer should be thoroughly rinsed after soaking to remove any residual cleaning agent.