Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that is available on the teeth surfaces in the mouth. It is also available on the retainers. This plaque is a natural occurrence that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated. If these plaque and tartar are available on the retainers, it can damage it in orthodontics. There are various negative impacts that this plaque and tartar can leave on the retainers.
Thus, it is essential to remove the plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and retainers. So, in this article, we will discuss some of the essential points about how you can remove plaque and tartar. If you are in Philadelphia, then you can consult any NE Philadelphia dentist who can provide a detailed analysis and advice about how to remove the plaque and tartar to improve your smile.
How do you remove plaque and tartar buildup from retainers?
- Cleaning solutions: Cleaning solutions are one of the most popular methods of cleaning teeth, and there are cleaning solutions available on the market. You have to soak the retainers in the cleaning solution and keep them for a certain amount of time. There are commercial products or homemade solutions for cleaning the plaque and tartar. So, you can take advantage of such solutions for an effective cleaning.
- Soft-Bristled Toothbrush: You must use soft-bristled toothbrushes to ensure that there are no marks on the retainers. Soft-bristled brushes will help you remove surface plaque, and it can also be done in conjunction with a soaking retainer in a cleaning solution.
- Flossing: It is one of the most effective methods of cleaning the retainers. It is primarily effective in areas where it is hard to reach for the brushes, such as wires or brackets of a retainer. So, flossing will help you get proper cleaning without relying on other cleaning products.
- Ultrasonic cleaners: This is a new option for cleaning the retainers. These devices are high-frequency sound waves that remove plaque and other debris from the retainer. Ultrasonic cleaning can be effective, but it is also costly and, therefore, only affordable to some.
Thus, these are specific methods that you can use to clean the retainers from plaque and tartar buildup. This will help in retaining oral hygiene, which is essential for a long-term result. So, you can use either homemade remedies along with daily oral hygiene or commercial products to keep your retainers clean. Additionally, you must consult with your dentist to learn in detail how to effectively maintain the retainers.
