Retainer cleaning crystals are specialized products, often packaged as effervescent powders or tablets, designed to sanitize and refresh oral appliances. These formulations typically contain compounds like sodium sulfate, sodium carbonate, and sodium dichloro isocyanurate, which dissolve in water to create a cleaning solution. Their primary function is to break down the biofilm, known as plaque, that accumulates on the appliance surface during wear. This process helps to eliminate discoloration or cloudiness, keeping the appliance clear and hygienic.
Appliance Suitability and Preparation
These crystal-based cleaners are formulated to be compatible with a variety of common oral devices, including clear aligners, Hawley retainers, Vivera retainers, and night guards. You will need a clean, non-metallic container, such as a glass cup or a plastic tub, large enough to fully submerge the appliance.
The solution must be prepared using lukewarm or room-temperature water. Excessively hot water can permanently warp the thermoplastic material of many aligners and retainers. Warping changes the appliance’s fit, potentially impacting the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment or retention.
Detailed Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Begin the process by gently rinsing your appliance under running tap water to remove any gross debris, food particles, or excess saliva that have collected on the surface. This initial rinse ensures the cleaning solution can act directly on the accumulated plaque and bacteria, rather than on loose matter.
Next, fill your chosen container with the appropriate amount of lukewarm water and add one packet of the retainer cleaning crystals. The crystals will begin to dissolve and effervesce. Gently shake or agitate the container for about 20 seconds to help the solution fully dissolve.
Submerge the retainer or aligner completely into the prepared solution, ensuring it is fully covered by the liquid. Allow the appliance to soak for the manufacturer’s recommended time. This period is generally between 15 and 30 minutes, with 15 minutes often being sufficient for a light clean.
After the soaking period, remove the appliance and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently scrub any remaining residue. Pay attention to crevices and hard-to-reach areas during this step. It is important to perform this scrubbing while rinsing the retainer under water.
Avoid using standard toothpaste, which can be abrasive and create microscopic scratches where bacteria can hide. Conclude the cleaning by rinsing the appliance and the container thoroughly with warm water, ensuring all chemical residue from the crystal solution is completely washed away before placing the appliance back into your mouth.
Integrating Crystals into a Routine
For appliances worn almost continuously, such as clear aligners, a deep cleaning with crystals is recommended once a day to maintain hygiene and clarity. This crystal cleaning is supplementary to the basic daily care of rinsing every time the appliance is removed and gently brushing it with water after meals. For retainers worn only at night, a deep soak a few times a week may be a suitable frequency.
Using the crystals consistently helps prevent the buildup of plaque and the subsequent development of odors and cloudiness. After the final rinse, the appliance should be completely dry before being stored in its case. Storing a damp appliance provides a favorable environment for bacterial growth, which can quickly negate the benefits of the crystal cleaning.