A retainer, a custom-made appliance, is designed to keep teeth in their new, corrected positions, preventing them from shifting back to their original alignment. Improper storage is one of the leading causes of retainer damage, loss, and the proliferation of bacteria that can compromise both the appliance and oral health. Establishing a consistent and careful storage routine is fundamental to maintaining the results of orthodontic work.
Immediate Storage Protocols
The moment a retainer is removed from the mouth, it should be placed immediately into its designated storage case. This case is specifically designed to be sturdy and often ventilated, providing a protected environment for the appliance. Using the case 100% of the time is the most effective way to prevent costly damage or loss.
A common mistake is wrapping the retainer in a napkin or paper towel during a meal, which frequently leads to the appliance being mistaken for trash and accidentally thrown away. Placing the retainer loose in a pocket, bag, or on a counter also exposes it to crushing, bending, or environmental contaminants. The hard-shell case acts as a physical barrier against these accidental events.
For short-term removal, such as while eating, the retainer should be rinsed quickly with water and secured inside its case until it is ready to be worn again. Longer-term storage requires the same immediate placement within the protective case. If the retainer is not in the mouth, it must be in the case.
Maintaining Hygiene and Cleaning
Before a retainer is placed into its storage case, it should always undergo a proper cleaning to remove oral bacteria and plaque biofilm. Retainers are cleaned by gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner, such as mild dish soap or a specialized retainer cleaner. Standard toothpaste is avoided because its abrasive properties can create micro-scratches on the retainer’s surface, which then become ideal sites for bacteria and odor accumulation.
The cleaning process should be done with cool or lukewarm water, as hot water can cause the plastic material to soften and warp, permanently altering the fit. After cleaning, the retainer should be stored according to the orthodontist’s instructions, which may vary depending on the type of retainer. Some orthodontists recommend storing clear plastic retainers slightly damp or submerged in water or a cleaning solution to prevent the material from drying out and cracking.
The storage case itself is a frequent breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can be transferred back to the clean retainer upon storage. To combat this, the retainer case should be cleaned weekly using soap and water, and allowed to air dry completely before the retainer is placed back inside. Ensuring a clean case prevents the growth of microbes that thrive in warm, moist environments.
Protecting the Retainer from Damage
External risks pose a threat to the structural integrity of a retainer. Heat exposure is a major concern because most retainers are made from thermoplastic materials that soften and deform at relatively low temperatures. Never leave a retainer or its case in a hot car, near a stove, or in direct sunlight, as the heat can rapidly cause the appliance to warp and lose its custom fit.
The aromatic residue from saliva and oral bacteria on a retainer is highly attractive to household pets, particularly dogs, who frequently chew and destroy the appliances. Keeping the retainer case secured and out of reach of pets is a necessary precaution to prevent this common and costly accident. This means placing the case on a high shelf or inside a closed drawer, rather than on a bedside table or the floor.
When traveling, the retainer should always be kept in carry-on luggage to protect it from extreme temperature fluctuations or loss associated with checked bags. A travel kit containing a spare case and cleaning supplies ensures a consistent care routine can be maintained regardless of location. Proactive protection against heat and accidental destruction minimizes the need for an expensive replacement.