After achieving your straight, beautiful smile with the innovative Invisalign® clear aligners, you’ll need to maintain the position of your teeth using Invisalign® retainers. Taking the time to carefully clean and care for your retainers will help keep them in tip-top shape.

Invisalign® Retainers Overview

While there are many types of retainers available, most patients who achieved straight smiles using Invisalign® prefer the clear retainers called Vivera, also made by Invisalign®. These retainers look like Invisalign’s® aligners and are just as comfortable. They are clear and cover all your teeth but are made of a more durable and rigid type of plastic. You will need to wear your retainers for 12-16 hours a day and will gradually decrease the time you wear them over a few months until you use them just when you sleep.

Cleaning Your Invisalign® Retainer

Just like any orthodontic appliance, your Invisalign® retainers require care over time. You will need to clean them every day, or better yet every time you brush your teeth. Cleaning your retainer will require toothpaste, a retainer brush, and a retainer cleaner.

Start by rinsing your Invisalign® retainer under lukewarm water. Make sure to avoid using water that is too hot to prevent distorting or damaging it. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or retainer brush to clean your retainer using small, circular motions, making sure to brush both the inside and outside of the appliance.

When you are done brushing your retainer, rinse it again using lukewarm water. Take a moment to inspect it for any calcium or tartar buildup which can appear as a cloudy, white film that is hard to remove. If you find that there is a buildup, soak the retainer in a retainer cleaning solution. Make sure you follow the product’s instructions.

While any retainer cleaning solution will work well to remove any deposits, you may want to consider using the Invisalign® Cleaning System that is designed specifically for Invisalign® retainers. Its special cleaning crystals will keep your retainers odor-free, hygienic, and clear.

Additional Care Tips

If you remove your retainers to eat, drink, or engage in athletic activities, you must clean your teeth before putting them back on. Any food or debris on your teeth can wreak havoc in your mouth when trapped under your retainers.

Make sure to keep your retainers stored in a safe and clean place, preferably their container or a glass of water. The last thing you want is to misplace them or to expose them to dirt or bacteria.

Staining agents in foods and drinks such as berries, wine, or coffee can leave your retainers looking stained and discolored and can result in offensive odors. It’s best to remove your retainers and store them safely during mealtime.

Quality Dental Care in Scottsdale, AZ

Contact Dr. Rick Dentistry to learn more about Invisalign® aligners and retainers, and how they can deliver and maintain your perfect smile. We are here to answer any questions and to help you determine the best cosmetic dentistry solution for you. Call us and schedule your appointment today!