How to Care for Your Retainer

A retainer sits in your mouth for hours each day, so keeping it clean matters:

• Clean it daily with a soft toothbrush and cool water. Hot water can warp the plastic, so avoid it. Soak it in a retainer cleaner as advised, not in mouthwash.
• Use the case. When the retainer isn't in your mouth, keep it in its case — wrapping it in a tissue is the usual way they end up in the bin.
• Eat without it. Take a removable retainer out to eat, and drink only water while it's in.
• Fixed retainers need flossing with a threader, and a quick check for any loose wire.

Bring your retainer to check-ups so the dentist can inspect the fit.