When people think of orthodontic treatment or ways to get the perfect smile, the first thing that comes to mind will definitely be, braces. And of course, the things that come to mind are a few other factors like the colour of your braces, type of braces treatment and the cost of braces in Singapore.
In orthodontics, retainers are often overlooked and most orthodontic patients usually think that just getting braces will allow them to solve their malocclusions or obtain their dream smile. However, in reality, the journey does not just end after getting your braces. Even after the braces stage, you will need to maintain your smile for a while more with retainers.
Just like your braces, your retainers will need plenty of care and maintenance, and below, we have come up with a few ways for you to do exactly just that.
1. Brush Your Retainers
Just like how you always take the time to brush your teeth, you will need to put in the same amount of care and effort for your retainers as well.
Get a hold of a medium-bristled toothbrush and brush your retainer slowly and carefully to make sure that the retainer is cleaned thoroughly. With enough effort, you are one step closer to protecting your smile.
2. Use Denture Tablets
Denture or retainer cleaners are a great way for you to clean your retainer, from time to time when they get dirty. That is because some people tend to get a lot of calcium deposits on their teeth and retainers.
Simply place one tablet in a glass of water and let your retainer soak for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Afterwards, you can continue with your usual way of scrubbing with a toothbrush and rinse it well with water to finish the process.
3. Soak Your Retainer In A Vinegar-Water Mix
When you are all out of ideas to clean your retainers, you can always rely on this home remedy.
Simply mix equal amounts of warm tap water and white distilled vinegar in the same cup, and soak your retainer in the solution for a good 15 to 30 minutes, then brush it thoroughly and rinse well with water.
4. Grab Some Mouthwash
For this method, you will have to combine the same amount of mouthwash solution and tap water together and soak your retainer in it.
Take note of the ingredients in the mouthwash. Mouthwash containing chlorhexidine can stain your teeth and may change the colour of your retainer too when it is being soaked for too long. It is better to use mouth-rinses that do not contain chlorhexidine, for soaking your retainers every now and then.
5. Use A Professional Retainer Cleaner
If you are not able to remove the stains and deposits from you retainers despite your best efforts, bring them to your dentist for a check and get them cleaned professionally.
Every orthodontic patient should get hold of some retainer cleaners as they are just the solution that you need for cleaning your retainers. They do not just offer a direct cleaning solution, but they come with a lot of purposes such as killing bacteria, prevent plaque buildup and keep the retainer fresh.
Not to mention, it is highly recommended by some of the best orthodontists in Singapore as they are specially formulated just for retainers.
Your braces are just as important as your retainers, so you should do whatever you can to keep them clean always. It may be a long journey, but the whole process will be worthwhile once you get your dream smile.
Location
10 Sinaran Drive, #11-18
Novena Medical Centre
Singapore 307506