Cleaning Around Retainers: Techniques and Tips for Effective Oral Hygiene

Managing dental care around a retainer can be a challenge, especially if you're new to wearing one. Retainers can create pockets where food particles and plaque can gather, leading to issues like calculus build-up and gum disease. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can maintain excellent oral hygiene and ensure your retainer stays clean and effective.

How to Clean Behind a Retainer

Bagasira Cathye L Smithwick, a Registered Dental Hygienist and author, offers some valuable insights into cleaning around retainers. Here are some strategies and tools that can help:

Use an Electric Toothbrush

According to Smithwick, an electric toothbrush with a small head can be very effective for this task. To use it properly, hold the toothbrush handle vertically, ideally at an angle opposite your nose. Keep the bristles at a 90-degree angle to the long axis of your teeth. This vertical position can help you reach the delicate area behind the retainer more effectively.

Vigorously clean this area for about a minute without applying excessive pressure. It's important to maintain gentle pressure to avoid damaging the retainer or your teeth.

Dealing with Calculus Build-Up

The tongue side of the lower anterior teeth is particularly prone to calculus formation. This area has a high mineral content due to the presence of large salivary glands underneath the tongue. As a result, it can be the first place where your dental hygienist will start cleaning during a professional dental visit. Understanding this can help you prioritize cleaning in this area.

Why Professional Cleanings Are Essential

It's crucial to have your teeth professionally cleaned and scaled at least every six months, or perhaps even four months if needed. Calculus that has formed and attached to your teeth can harbor bacteria, leading to new calculus formation. Regular professional cleanings help remove these stubborn deposits and maintain your oral health.

Threaded Flossing Techniques

Threaded flossing is a technique recommended for effectively cleaning around retainers. If you're having trouble threading the floss under the retainer, there are a few options:

Floss Threaders: These tools can help you thread the floss under the retainer wire. Once the floss is in place, curve it to fit around one tooth and slide it under the gum. Recurve the floss and repeat for the next tooth. Ask Your Orthodontist for Help: If you're still having trouble, your orthodontist can demonstrate the correct technique or even replace the wire in a way that allows easier access for cleaning. Obtain Floss Threaders: Your orthodontist should have provided you with a few samples. If not, consider purchasing your own to keep on hand for regular use.

By using these tools and techniques, you can ensure that the areas around your retainer remain clean and free from plaque and calculus. This not only supports the effectiveness of your retainer but also contributes to overall oral hygiene.