You might already have some cleaning methods on hand.

Regular cleaning ensures your retainer stays safe to wear and maintains your overall oral health.

Research on retainers backs up these claims.

Close up of person in green collared shirt with bright red nail polish smiling while holding their clear dental aligner, learning how to clean a retainer for oral health

As for how often to clean your retainer?

The gold standard is after every single use and then a once-weekly deeper clean, says Dr. Salierno.

you’re able to also clean it with warm soap and water.

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Chris Salierno, DDS, is a dentist and chief dental officer for Tend, a chain of modern dental studios.

But the pros say other tools and products can help keep it mouth-ready.

Whatever works best for you is what you should do, says Dr. Varone.

Here’s a list of some other things to try.

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1.

After removing the retainer from the solution, rinse it under water before placing it in your mouth.

He says 15 to 20 minutes in the vinegar bath is a great way to deep-clean your retainer.

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To use one of these products, follow the directions as specified on the package.

Then, rinse it off and pop it into your mouthafter youve brushed and flossed, of course.

Dr. Salierno says these devices may be able to clean your machine more efficiently.

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Chris Salierno, DDS, is a dentist and chief dental officer for Tend, a chain of modern dental studios.

Heres how most work: First you dissolve a cleaning tablet into the machines water reservoir.

And, moving forward, have your retainer be your plus-one at those appointments.

Bring your retainers with you on your check-up visit, says Dr. Salierno.

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Your dentist and hygienist can give them a professional cleaning and verify they still fit you well.

In this case, Dr. Varone says your provider can ensure it still fits correctly after your procedure.

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