How to Clean a Retainer: Clear and Hawley Retainers

How to Clean a Retainer Every Day

1. Rinse it in cool or lukewarm water each time you take it out, before saliva and plaque dry on it.
2. Brush gently inside and out with a soft toothbrush and mild, unscented soap. Avoid regular toothpaste, which can scratch clear plastic and make it cloudy.
3. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry, or put it straight back in your mouth after brushing your teeth.

How to Deep Clean a Retainer

Once or twice a week, soak your retainer in a retainer or denture cleaning tablet dissolved in lukewarm water, following the package directions, then brush and rinse. For white, cloudy buildup, a short soak in equal parts white vinegar and lukewarm water can help loosen mineral deposits. Rinse well afterward.

Cleaning Clear (Essix) vs. Hawley Retainers

• Clear plastic retainers scratch and warp easily, so use only soft brushes and lukewarm water.
• Hawley retainers (acrylic with a wire) can be brushed a little more firmly, but be gentle around the wire so you don’t bend it.

What Not to Do

• Don’t use hot or boiling water, which can warp the plastic.
• Don’t use bleach or alcohol-based mouthwash.
• Don’t put it in the dishwasher or microwave.
• Don’t wrap it in a napkin at meals. That’s the most common way retainers get thrown away. Use a case.

When to Replace Your Retainer

Replace your retainer if it cracks, warps, stays cloudy or smelly after cleaning, or no longer fits snugly. Clear retainers commonly need replacement every 6 months to 3 years, according to Dentaly. See our retainer replacement guide, or order a custom clear retainer from home.

What Is the White Stuff on My Retainer?

The chalky white film or spots on a retainer are usually mineral deposits from your saliva (similar to tartar on teeth), often mixed with plaque. They build up faster if the retainer dries out or isn’t cleaned every day.

To remove it:

1. Soak the retainer for 15 to 20 minutes in a mix of equal parts white vinegar and lukewarm water.
2. Gently brush it with a soft toothbrush, paying attention to grooves and edges.
3. Rinse well with cool or lukewarm water.

If the buildup won’t come off, or the plastic looks cloudy, cracked, or warped, it’s time for a replacement retainer.

How to Clean an Essix Retainer With a Fake Tooth

Retainers with a replacement tooth (a pontic) need a gentler touch so the tooth stays secure:

• Brush around the fake tooth lightly with a soft brush. Don’t pry or flex the plastic around it.
• Use lukewarm water only. Hot water can warp the plastic and loosen the tooth.
• Skip alcohol-based mouthwash soaks, which can cloud the plastic over time.
• If the tooth feels loose or the plastic around it cracks, replace the retainer. Our guide to retainers with a fake tooth explains your options.

Frequently Asked Questions