Metal Mouth Message Board

I have an essix clear retainer that I have been wearing for four days now after getting my braces off and I've looked at a lot of the questions posted here but not all of them so sorry if my questions have already been asked or they're just really stupid.

I'm kind of paranoid about my retainer, not wanting my teeth to go back to the way they were so I'm taking extra care of my retainer. Questions: Is it okay to soak my retainer in mouth wash? & Is it normal for my teeth/gums to hurt and teeth to feel loose? Also, how often should I clean my retainer?

Thanks in advance!

Hi there,

I'm an orthodontist. Let me try to answer your questions.

> Is it okay to soak my retainer in mouth wash?

As answered by the privious posting, yes. Try to use clear mouthwash to minimize tinting of your Essix.

> Is it normal for my teeth/gums to hurt and teeth to feel loose?

If your gums were a bit inflammed and swollen at the end of your treatment, it is normal they may be a bit sore on the first days of Essix wear. As far as your teeth feeling loose, that is perfectly normal. The bone around them will take up to 12 months to fully remodel and mature. That's why the first 12 months is the critical period for excellent retainer wear.

> Also, how often should I clean my retainer?

You may brush it with a soft toothbrush (NO TOOTHPASTE) at least once a week. If you're extremelly adamant about that, once a day before bedtime is okay too.

Good luck and smile big!

Hmm my ortho said not to soak in mouthwash with alcohol. I have an essix retainer and have not soaked it in anything but non-alcohol mouthwashes or a denture cleaner. It still looks like new.

Nikkie,
Do you brush your retainer? Just wondering. The instructions that I got with my Essix said that I could brush it but to use soap, not toothpaste! I've been brushing mine twice a day, but it sounds like I should stop?

ETA: The soap I use is Dr. Bronner's peppermint soap, which can be used for everything from toothbrushing to laundry.

I do brush it but I don't use anything other than water. I soak it in Crest Pro Health during the day (I only wear it at night) and 2 times a week I soak it in a denture cleaner. Seems to be keeping it nice and clean.

Thanks for the quick response. I think I'll drop back to brushing once a day, rather than twice! I just find that it's easier to get into a routine and keep with it.

Thank you to everyone that replied, you guys have been a big help!
Quick question...I think my mouthwash is the kind with alcohol...is that okay? I read above that you're not supposed to so now I'm worried.

ETA: The soap I use is Dr. Bronner's peppermint soap, which can be used for everything from toothbrushing to laundry.

I use that, too!!

ETA: The soap I use is Dr. Bronner's peppermint soap, which can be used for everything from toothbrushing to laundry.

I use that, too!!

I use it for everything, but I never would have thought about retainers