The presence of Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria responsible for Strep throat, means your oral appliance has been exposed to a highly contagious pathogen. Retainers, being warm and moist, can become a harbor for this bacteria, leading to re-infection or spread if not thoroughly sanitized. The goal of sanitation is the complete eradication of the bacteria from the appliance material without causing damage to its structure. A deep disinfection process is necessary immediately after you are symptom-free or have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours.
Approved Sanitation Solutions
Household 3% hydrogen peroxide is an accessible and effective disinfectant, but it must be diluted before use. Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide with lukewarm water to create a safe solution for soaking. The retainer should be fully submerged in this mixture for approximately 15 to 30 minutes to ensure bacterial inactivation. Following this chemical soak, a thorough rinse under running water is mandatory to remove all peroxide residue before the retainer is placed back in the mouth.
Proprietary cleaning tablets, such as Polident or Efferdent, offer a convenient and material-safe option. These tablets are formulated with ingredients effective against cocci bacteria, including Streptococcus. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and soaking time, which typically ranges from 5 to 15 minutes. Avoid exceeding the recommended soak duration, as prolonged exposure to the active ingredients can potentially affect the acrylic or metal components of the retainer.
If other options are unavailable, a highly diluted bleach solution can be used for rapid disinfection, but caution is required due to its corrosive nature. Mix one teaspoon of regular household bleach with eight ounces of cool water. The retainer should be soaked in this mixture for no more than five minutes to prevent material degradation and discoloration. Immediately after the short soak, rinse the retainer meticulously for several minutes under running water to ensure no trace of the bleach remains.
Post-Cleaning Procedures and Timing
The deep sanitation process should begin once you are feeling better and have completed the initial 24 hours of antibiotic treatment, ensuring you are no longer contagious. You should only resume wearing the retainer after the thorough disinfection is complete and you have been cleared by a healthcare provider. One comprehensive deep clean is generally sufficient to eliminate the bacterial threat posed by the Strep infection.
After the initial disinfection, return to your regular daily cleaning regimen. This involves a gentle mechanical clean with a soft-bristled brush and mild, non-abrasive soap. This final brushing step is important after any chemical soak to physically remove any residual disinfectant and loosened biofilm. The toothbrush used during the illness should also be replaced or thoroughly disinfected to prevent reinoculation of the appliance.
Proper handling extends to the retainer’s storage environment. The retainer case must be sanitized at the same time as the appliance, or once a day. Wash the case using warm, soapy water, ensuring all internal surfaces are scrubbed. After washing, the case must be rinsed and allowed to air dry completely before the retainer is stored inside.
Cleaning Methods That Damage Retainers
Certain cleaning methods should be avoided as they can compromise the structural integrity of the retainer material. Never use boiling water or place the retainer in a dishwasher, as the high heat will cause the plastic or acrylic to warp irreversibly. A misshapen retainer will no longer fit correctly and can actively shift the alignment of your teeth.
Avoid using harsh, undiluted chemicals that can degrade the appliance material. This includes pure rubbing alcohol, full-strength mouthwash, or vinegar used improperly. Abrasive materials, such as standard toothpaste or scouring powders, should also be avoided because they create microscopic scratches. These small abrasions compromise the smooth integrity of the material, creating ideal locations for future bacteria to colonize and form a resistant biofilm.