How to Clean an Acrylic Retainer

Keep your retainer clean without damaging the acrylic.

Retainers spend a lot of time in your mouth and can contain a large amount of bacteria. Because of that, it is strongly recommended to clean your retainer often. However, for retainers that contain acrylic, it is important to clean carefully to avoid damage. Learn the steps in cleaning an acrylic retainer without damaging it.

Things You'll Need

• Bowl
• Dental cleaner
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Mouthwash (alcohol free)

Instructions

1. Rinse the retainer thoroughly under cool water. Use your fingers to remove any loose food or other items that may be present.

2. Fill a small bowl with dental cleaner and submerge the retainer. Allow the retainer to remain submerged for 15 minutes.

3. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a toothbrush. Remove the retainer and gently brush the entire surface of the retainer using the toothbrush.

4. Empty the dental cleaner from the bowl and rinse it out. Pour a small amount of alcohol-free mouthwash into the bowl. Use enough to completely cover the retainer. Submerge the retainer into the mouthwash for two hours.

5. Remove the retainer from the mouthwash. Rinse under cool water for 30 seconds.

References

• How to Clean Stuff: How to Clean a Retainer