Can I wear my retainer in the shower?

It's OK to brush them with toothpaste, but toothpaste can make the plastic look dull or cloudy. NEVER place your retainer in hot water. Heat can distort the plastic and ruin the retainer. There will be a charge to replace lost or broken retainers or to replace retainers that do not fit due to lack of wear.
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Can you put your retainer in wet?

Should I keep my retainer in water? It's best to store your retainer in its carrying case to keep it safe, but soaking your retainer in water can help keep it clean. We recommend soaking your retainer once a week to keep it free of bacteria.
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At what temperature do retainers melt?

Instead, soak your retainers in a denture cleaning product like Efferdent once a week to keep them clean. Don't Leave It In The Hot Car – Temperatures in a closed car during the summer can reach temperatures in excess of 130 degrees. Retainers will melt in these temperatures, so remember to take them with you.
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Do and don'ts with retainers?

You should always be sure that your retainers are seated completely. Do not allow them to “flop” around. Don't leave your retainers in a hot car or put in hot water (such as a boiling them or putting them into the dishwasher.) They are heat sensitive so they will warp or melt.
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Do you have to brush your teeth before putting your retainer in?

Do brush your teeth after every meal and before putting on your retainer. Do use your hands before putting your retainer in your mouth. Make sure it's correctly in place before biting down.
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5 Things You Must Know About Retainers



Can you kiss with retainers?

“I have a long term boyfriend, so kissing is a little weird” Emma admits. Okay, yes aligners and retainers may seem like a mood killer, but they don't have to spoil that romantic moment. Depending on how comfortable you feel, you may find it easier to be open about needing to take them out.
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Can you chew gum with retainers?

Do not chew gum because it will stick to your retainer and may warp the retainer. Keep your retainer in its retainer case to prevent its loss and breakage, this means when you are not wearing your retainers they should be in their case.
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Do retainers stain teeth?

They can. In fact, many patients struggle with the yellowing of their retainers that can occur due to plaque buildup and staining from certain foods. Luckily, there are some small changes you can make to avoid staining your Invisalign trays and retainers.
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Can I drink with my retainer in?

Don't drink soda or alcohol while wearing a retainer – It is tempting to drink while wearing a retainer because of the unobtrusive nature of the device. However, excess liquid trapped under the trays can vastly intensify acid exposure to teeth, increasing the probability of tooth decay.
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Can I drink milk with retainers?

When your retainer is in your mouth DO NOT eat chocolate, sweets, chewing gum etc. Or drink sugary or fizzy drinks (incl. diet varieties) and acidic fruit juices. Water and milk are best.
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Does hot water damage retainers?

Don't soak with extremely hot water. The heat will warp the retainer from its original state, which will change the position of your teeth. Don't put your retainer in the dishwasher.
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Why do my retainers smell?

Just like on your teeth, plaque, tartar, and bacteria can build up on the surface of your retainer. This build-up contributes to the bad smell you may experience. While brushing and flossing your teeth are important to keep these things in check, regular cleaning of your retainer is also important.
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Should I brush my retainer with toothpaste?

Some things to NEVER do to clean your retainer! Do NOT use toothpaste or anything abrasive; it will scratch your retainer, causing bacteria to build up and make it look cloudy. Never soak your retainer in HOT/boiling water or run it through the dishwasher ; it can melt it and distort it.
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Why is my retainer yellow?

In clear retainers or aligners, a buildup of bacteria-filled biofilm in your mouth covers the surface of the retainer. When left uncleaned, this film can cause a yellowish appearance. The longer it remains on your retainer, the greater the chance of it becoming hard and the stains becoming permanent.
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How often should retainers be cleaned?

Cleaning your retainer is just as important as brushing your teeth. You need to clean your retainer in warm water and dish soap once a day to keep it healthy. It's a good idea to brush it out after each meal as well.
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What happens if I eat with my retainer in?

Eating and drinking while wearing your retainer increases the risk that sugars, bacteria, and food particles will become trapped within the retainer. When this occurs, your risk of dental plaque, cavities, and even gum disease increases.
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Can I stop wearing my retainer after 2 years?

Retainers keep your smile in place when active treatment is complete and adults need to wear their retainers for life, but adolescents may be able to stop wearing them after about 10 years.
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Should retainers cover gums?

Sometimes people ask about a retainer causing swollen gums, whilst this is technically possible if the retainer is touching the gums, it is highly unlikely as most retainers fit so tightly around the teeth that they don't move around and rub.
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How do I get a permanent retainer?

Permanent retainers can be a convenient alternative to having a removable plastic retainer, but they're not for everyone. Talk to a dentist or orthodontist (you can even get multiple opinions) about the options for your dental goals and needs, to see what's right for you.
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Do retainers make your breath stink?

Many people believe that some part of their appliances must be causing the stench. However, this is not the case. Braces or retainers contribute to bad breath just as much as normal teeth do. The real culprit is halitosis-inducing bacteria.
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How long do plastic retainers last?

Plastic Removable Retainer

Both types of removable retainers can experience wear and tear over time. Acrylic removable retainers, referred to as Hawley retainers, may last up to 10 years.
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Can mold grow on retainers?

Your retainer can build up bacteria, mold, tartar, and germs – and then you put it in your mouth. Avoid these potential hazards by regularly cleaning your retainer with a regular toothbrush and toothpaste or soaking it in a glass of cool water with baking soda.
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Do you get a lisp with retainers?

Wearing your retainer will help prevent your teeth from becoming crowded or crooked again. You may notice a slight lisp in your speech for the first few days, until you learn to talk with the retainers in. Your mouth may also be slightly sore for a few days; over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
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Are clear retainers better than metal?

A metal retainer is just as effective as a clear retainer is. They are durable and can last for decades. However, one of the challenges patients have with them is that they can be uncomfortable and make it very difficult to speak.
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Can you drink with clear retainers?

The retainers are clear and therefore can discolor if drinking coffee, tea, pop, dark juices or anything that is not a clear liquid. It is recommended that the beverage of choice while wearing the clear retainers is water.
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