How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

Retainers play an essential role in your post-orthodontic treatment plan. They help keep your teeth straight, maintaining the smile you invested in. Your orthodontist will likely recommend you wear a retainer for life because teeth are prone to shifting. Retainers usually only last a few years, so it's imperative you know when it's time to replace it so you can keep your smile.

Learn the telltale signs of when to replace your retainer, and use the below tips to make sure your current retainer lasts its entire lifespan.

Standard Types of Retainers: Hawley vs. Essix

There are a few types of retainers, but the two most common are Hawley and Essix. If you're wondering which one you have, consider these similarities and differences:

  • Hawley: When thinking of retainers, many people think of the 1919 Hawley retainer. Most people recognize it by its wire, which extends across the teeth, and the acrylic plate that forms to the roof of your mouth. This type moves teeth to the correct positions.
  • Essix: Essix retainers resemble Invisalign aligners, which feature clear plastic. Unlike Hawley retainers, Essix retainers aim to keep your teeth in place rather than move them.

Both are reliable options great for maintaining your smile. That said, both have their limitations and require daily cleaning. Continue reading to learn more about both of these criteria.

Retainer Replacement Guide and FAQs

Sometimes, retainers can be a bit confusing for new wearers. Retainers are different from braces and other aligners, so you might have a few questions, especially replacing them. These FAQs can point you in the right direction.

How Long Do Retainers Last?

Your retainer's lifespan depends entirely on how well you care for it, as well as the type your orthodontist provides.With the proper maintenance, the lifespan for retainers can last several years for each type of retainer.

After treatment, you'll receive retainers for your upper and lower teeth. Your upper teeth are more prone to wear and tear than your lower teeth. Therefore, your upper retainer will likely need replacing before your lower one. That's normal — just look for the classic signs you need a retainer replacement.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace Your Retainer?

Following your investment for orthodontic treatment, the investment for your retainers is well worth the cost. Retainers can cost a few hundred dollars, and you'll be able to use your retainer to keep your teeth straight for years to come. The total retainer replacement cost varies depending on the orthodontist you see and the type of insurance coverage you receive, as well.

What Are the Risks of Wearing an Old Retainer?

After a few years, your retainer won't fit your teeth the way it did when it was new. Removable retainers, especially Essix retainers, are prone to stretching and deforming. Wearing an old retainer that's stretched or deformed can shift and misalign your teeth, which means the retainer is no longer doing its job of keeping your teeth straight. 

If your teeth begin to move and misalign, you may have to start fresh with another orthodontic treatment plan. The best way to avoid this scenario is to replace your retainer when you notice signs it's time to replace it.

6 Common Signs It's Time to Replace Your Retainer

6 Common Signs It's Time to Replace Your Retainer [list]

How do you know when to replace a retainer? Here's a look at the six most common signs.

1. There Are Cracks

A common sign that it's time to replace your retainer is the presence of cracks and dents. Cracks and dents take away the structural strength your retainer needs to keep your teeth aligned properly. The longer you wait to replace your retainer, the larger these cracks and dents become and the more prone your teeth are to shifting. Replace yours as soon as you notice cracks.

2. It Looks or Feels Warped

If you've ever put your retainer in the dishwasher, you aren't the only one. It's a scenario that orthodontists are very familiar with. If you've done this in the past, you know what happens to your retainer when cleaning with hot water — it warps and doesn't keep your teeth aligned anymore. It may even shift your teeth into the wrong positions. Soaking your retainer in cleaner with high alcohol content, like mouthwash, can cause warping, too.

3. It's Starting to Feel Loose

Repeatedly taking your retainer out and putting it back in will cause wear over time. It's a natural part of wearing one. If you notice your retainer feeling loose, it doesn't mean your teeth are shifting. Instead, it's an indication it's time to replace your retainer. 

A loose retainer doesn't have the structural integrity to keep your teeth aligned. Keep your teeth from shifting by getting your retainer replaced as soon as possible. 

4. You Notice Lots of Calcium Buildup

Your retainer is susceptible to the same bacteria that live in your mouth. Over 700 species of microbes — bacteria, fungus and more — exist in your mouth. Some of these bacteria form plaque. When you don't get rid of the plaque, it can harden into tartar, a buildup of calcium.

Over time, it's natural for there to be some level of calcium buildup, which looks like a whiteish or yellowish film. It's most commonly found in hard-to-clean spaces on your retainer. Calcium buildup can irritate your gums, cause bad breath and lead to gum disease or tooth loss. These conditions prevent you from properly wearing your retainer. Aim to replace yours when you notice a lot of this buildup.

5. It Smells Bad

Your retainer may begin to smell bad over time. As mentioned, your mouth is home to hundreds of different microbe species, which your retainer is also susceptible to. You may notice a bad smell coming from your retainer after a long night's rest or if you forget to clean it for a few days. That's normal. However, if you notice a bad smell that won't go away no matter how many times you clean your retainer, it may be the early signs of calcium buildup — which may mean your retainer's lifespan is almost up.

6. You Lost It

Look, things happen. In the years following your orthodontic treatment, you'll probably move around a few times or experience the occasional scatterbrain. It's common for orthodontic patients to misplace their retainers. If you do lose your retainer, contact your orthodontist right away and get a new one. The faster you get a new retainer, the less time your teeth have to shift. If you get your new retainer and find your old one, store it away and continue wearing your new one.

5 Tips on How to Take Proper Care of Your Retainer

Check out a few tips to help you take better care of your retainer so it lasts longer.

1. Take It Out Before Eating

Avoid eating or chewing anything with your retainer in your mouth. Chewing requires a lot of force, which can cause premature cracks and dents. When this happens, your retainer loses its structural integrity, possibly causing your teeth to shift around. It may even end up requiring a second round of orthodontic treatment.

Eating with your retainer in your mouth also causes food to get trapped in it. When food becomes trapped in your retainer, it can lead to plaque buildup or even calcium buildup over time. 

Here's a quick tip. When you take your retainer out before eating, avoid placing it on a napkin or tissue. If you do, you might accidentally throw it out, causing you to make an emergency call to your orthodontist for a replacement. Instead, try bringing your retainer case so you have a safe spot to stow it away.

2. Don't Brush Your Teeth With It In

Avoid brushing with your retainer in, as your toothbrush and toothpaste can harm your retainer. Toothpaste is excellent at cleaning your enamel and removing plaque. But toothpaste also has abrasive compounds your retainer can't handle because your retainer's materials aren't as strong as enamel. Be sure to clean your retainer separately from when you're brushing your teeth.

3. Clean It Regularly With the Right Products

Clean your retainers at least daily. Retainers are susceptible to the same bacteria found in your mouth. Just as you should brush your teeth daily, your retainer requires the same treatment. 

Your retainer requires the same daily treatment as brushing your teeth.

The best ways to clean your retainer are:

  • EverSmile® WhiteFoam™: The simplest and easiest way to clean your retainer is by using WhiteFoam. WhiteFoam is an exclusive product to EverSmile, a brand dedicated to keeping your retainers clean. Its formula includes hydrogen peroxide, which quickly and effectively cleans your retainers while brightening your smile. All you need to do is pump the product into your retainer, spread it around and pop your retainer back into your mouth.
  • Antibacterial soap and water: Clean your retainer by mixing a small amount of antibacterial soap and warm water into a small glass. Place your retainer into the mixture and let it soak for about 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse your retainer to remove any leftover soap.
  • White vinegar and water: Vinegar is naturally great at removing the stubborn particles built up in your retainer. Mix 1 part vinegar, 4 parts warm water in a small glass, then add your retainer. Let it sit for around 30 minutes. After, rinse your retainer with cool water and place it back in your mouth.
  • Baking soda and water: Like vinegar, baking soda has natural bacteria-removing properties. Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with 1/2 cup water, then place your retainer into the mixture. Let your retainer soak for about an hour. Then, rinse off your retainer, and you're good to go.

Avoid using hot water during cleaning. Hot water can warp your retainer, causing you to need a premature replacement. Instead, use warm water when cleaning and cool water when rinsing.

4. Avoid Harsh Cleaners

Stay clear of harsh cleaners when cleaning your retainer. Your retainer is sensitive to harsh cleaners, which is why you want to stick to the gentle cleaning recommendations outlined above. Some harsh cleaners to avoid include:

  • Mouthwash: Some mouthwashes include a high alcohol content to remove some of the bacteria in your mouth. Alcohol isn't good for retainers, as it dries them out and makes them more prone to damage.
  • Toothpaste: As mentioned above, toothpaste has abrasive qualities that wear down your retainer, making them more susceptible to things like cracks and warping.
  • Cleaning agents: The harsh chemicals in household cleaning agents strip away bacteria from frequently touched surfaces — not the plaque from your retainer. Like mouthwash, cleaning agents can dry out your retainer and make it more prone to damage.

5. Store Your Retainer Safely

When you get your retainer after your orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will supply you with a small retainer case. Keep your retainer in this container whenever you aren't wearing it. Otherwise, you may lose it or accidentally expose it to harsh elements, like heat and sun exposure, which causes warping.

If your orthodontist says you only have to wear your retainers at night, keep your container next to your bedside table. That way, it's always within reach. Or, if your orthodontist tells you to wear it throughout the day, keep your case in your purse or backpack so you can easily store your retainer when eating.

EverSmile Helps You Keep Your Retainers Fresh

EverSmile started in 2013 when Dr. Michael Florman kept getting the same question from his patients — "How do I keep my aligners clean and fresh?" As a result, he created a reliable solution for his patients, the revolutionary cleaner, WhiteFoam. WhiteFoam is America's top-selling aligner cleaner because it's so effective.

WhiteFoam gets its fighting power from hydrogen peroxide. This ingredient is great at killing the bacteria buildup in your retainers, with the added benefit of whitening your teeth after continual use. Daily on-the-go use of WhiteFoam prevents bad smells, calcium buildup and general funk.

Do you currently have braces and are preparing for your retainer? We have a solution for you, too. We understand braces can be hard to clean, especially when food gets stuck around your brackets and wires. Make cleaning easy by using our OrthoFoam. All you have to do is brush with OrthoFoam for 60 seconds or rinse for 60 seconds. It'll remove any buildup while also whitening your teeth both around and under your brackets.

Discover EverSmile WhiteFoam and Place an Order Today

Are you ready to make the switch to WhiteFoam? WhiteFoam changes the game when it comes to keeping your retainers clean. By keeping your retainer clean, you're getting the most out of its lifespan and significantly reducing the chance of your teeth shifting in the long run.

Learn more about WhiteFoam by visiting our product page. There, you can easily place an order so you can benefit right away. If you have questions, contact us directly from our product page, too!

EverSmile helps you keep your retainers fresh, order today!

New

Learn More

Related Articles

  • How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

    How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

    Retainers play an essential role in your post-orthodontic treatment plan. They help keep your teeth straight, maintaining the smile you invested in. Your orthodontist will likely recommend you wear a retainer for life because teeth are prone to shifting. Retainers usually only last a few...

    Read More
  • Why Does Having Straight Teeth Matter? 12 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth

    Why Does Having Straight Teeth Matter? 12 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth

    If you're one of 81% of adults that think their teeth are unattractive when they see them in photographs, it might feel good to know you're not alone. But it still doesn't change how you feel.  Many adults are self-conscious about their smiles because they don't...

    Read More
  • Breakdown of the Different Clear Aligner and Retainer Materials

    Breakdown of the Different Clear Aligner and Retainer Materials

    Confidence begins with a smile. If you look in the mirror and aren't happy with your smile, now's the perfect time to change it! Clear aligners and retainers are more accessible and affordable than ever before. They straighten your teeth over time while being discreet...

    Read More
  • What's the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Retainers?

    What's the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Retainers?

    On the surface, aligners and retainers seem pretty similar. Both are made of clear plastic and used for orthodontic treatment. However, they have two different goals — aligners are meant to move your teeth into new positions, while retainers keep your teeth in their final...

    Read More
  • How to Clean ClearCorrect Aligners

    How to Clean ClearCorrect Aligners

    Aligners are excellent alternatives to traditional wire braces. They discreetly straighten your smile, allow you to maintain your oral health more easily, and don't come with any food or drink restrictions. Because ClearCorrect aligners stay in your mouth for at least 22 hours a day,...

    Read More
  • Aligner Guide for New Users: Everything You Need to Know as a New Aligner Wearer

    Aligner Guide for New Users: Everything You Need to Know as a New Aligner Wearer

    Clear aligners have emerged as an exciting alternative to traditional braces. Brands such as Invisalign offer the benefits of straighter teeth with the addition of a discreet appearance to fit any lifestyle. You can enjoy more freedom when wearing clear aligners, and you can smile...

    Read More
  • 14 Tips for a Healthier Smile

    14 Tips for a Healthier Smile

    A smile is often one of the first things people notice about us, and many people take great pride in having an attractive smile. However, the importance of having a healthy smile goes beyond mere appearances. The health of our teeth and gums is directly tied...

    Read More
  • How to Get Rid of Yellow Staining From Braces

    How to Get Rid of Yellow Staining From Braces

    The moment your braces come off is a major high point in your life. You've spent a lot of time waiting and working to achieve the straight teeth and radiant smile you've always dreamed of. But sometimes when the braces come off, your smile isn't quite...

    Read More
  • 12 Tips for New Invisalign Users

    12 Tips for New Invisalign Users

    Welcome to the world of Invisalign aligners! You've taken the next step toward straighter teeth and a more confident smile by subscribing to Invisalign treatment. But this is only the beginning. You'll be spending the next several months to a year wearing your aligners, and...

    Read More
  • How to Brush Your Teeth With Aligners

    How to Brush Your Teeth With Aligners

    Clear aligners are convenient and discreet ways to help straighten your smile. You can remove them whenever you need to, and they're more comfortable than traditional metal braces. It's essential to take care of your teeth, and while making sure they're straight is one way...

    Read More
  • The Facts on Funk: Why Is My Clear Aligner Yellow?

    The Facts on Funk: Why Is My Clear Aligner Yellow?

    You got clear aligners so that no one would notice them, but your invisible aligners are only invisible if they stay clear. Many things can stain your aligners or lead to your retainer turning yellow. Certain foods, such as dark-colored berries or sugary chocolates can lead...

    Read More
  • Navigating Contact Sports and Aligners

    Navigating Contact Sports and Aligners

    As an athlete, you have a lot on your mind when you're on the field or court. You're thinking about your opponent's next move, memorizing plays and doing everything you can to win. You don't want your teeth or aligners taking up valuable thought space...

    Read More
  • The Science Behind Teeth Movement

    The Science Behind Teeth Movement

    Many people experience a moment where they notice something new about their physical appearance. This is especially true with teeth. You could smile at yourself in the mirror and realize that things are different than they were last time you checked. "Was that gap always...

    Read More
  • How to Get Rid of Aligner Smell

    How to Get Rid of Aligner Smell

    As a user of clear plastic aligners, you care about your teeth, and you want your smile to look great. The clear plastic makes the process discreet so you can wear your aligners with confidence while hanging out with friends and family or meeting people...

    Read More
  • Why Do Aligners and Retainers Get Holes?

    Why Do Aligners and Retainers Get Holes?

    You wear your aligners almost all day, so it's not surprising that they can become damaged. But, why do aligners and retainers get holes and other damage? There are a few different ways this can happen. Take a look at the guide below to learn...

    Read More
  • Why Do Teeth Come in Crooked?

    Why Do Teeth Come in Crooked?

    If you've ever looked at your smile in the mirror and noticed misaligned teeth, you've probably wondered why teeth come in crooked. Is there any way to correct this issue? Luckily, you have a few options for fixing your smile, but there are even more...

    Read More
  • How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

    How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

    Retainers play an essential role in your post-orthodontic treatment plan. They help keep your teeth straight, maintaining the smile you invested in. Your orthodontist will likely recommend you wear a retainer for life because teeth are prone to shifting. Retainers usually only last a few...

    Read More
  • Why Does Having Straight Teeth Matter? 12 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth

    Why Does Having Straight Teeth Matter? 12 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth

    If you're one of 81% of adults that think their teeth are unattractive when they see them in photographs, it might feel good to know you're not alone. But it still doesn't change how you feel.  Many adults are self-conscious about their smiles because they don't...

    Read More
  • What's the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Retainers?

    What's the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Retainers?

    On the surface, aligners and retainers seem pretty similar. Both are made of clear plastic and used for orthodontic treatment. However, they have two different goals — aligners are meant to move your teeth into new positions, while retainers keep your teeth in their final...

    Read More
  • 14 Tips for a Healthier Smile

    14 Tips for a Healthier Smile

    A smile is often one of the first things people notice about us, and many people take great pride in having an attractive smile. However, the importance of having a healthy smile goes beyond mere appearances. The health of our teeth and gums is directly tied...

    Read More
  • How to Get Rid of Yellow Staining From Braces

    How to Get Rid of Yellow Staining From Braces

    The moment your braces come off is a major high point in your life. You've spent a lot of time waiting and working to achieve the straight teeth and radiant smile you've always dreamed of. But sometimes when the braces come off, your smile isn't quite...

    Read More
  • The Science Behind Teeth Movement

    The Science Behind Teeth Movement

    Many people experience a moment where they notice something new about their physical appearance. This is especially true with teeth. You could smile at yourself in the mirror and realize that things are different than they were last time you checked. "Was that gap always...

    Read More
  • Why Do Teeth Come in Crooked?

    Why Do Teeth Come in Crooked?

    If you've ever looked at your smile in the mirror and noticed misaligned teeth, you've probably wondered why teeth come in crooked. Is there any way to correct this issue? Luckily, you have a few options for fixing your smile, but there are even more...

    Read More
  • How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

    How to Tell if It's Time to Replace a Retainer

    Retainers play an essential role in your post-orthodontic treatment plan. They help keep your teeth straight, maintaining the smile you invested in. Your orthodontist will likely recommend you wear a retainer for life because teeth are prone to shifting. Retainers usually only last a few...

    Read More
  • Why Does Having Straight Teeth Matter? 12 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth

    Why Does Having Straight Teeth Matter? 12 Health Benefits of Straight Teeth

    If you're one of 81% of adults that think their teeth are unattractive when they see them in photographs, it might feel good to know you're not alone. But it still doesn't change how you feel.  Many adults are self-conscious about their smiles because they don't...

    Read More
  • Breakdown of the Different Clear Aligner and Retainer Materials

    Breakdown of the Different Clear Aligner and Retainer Materials

    Confidence begins with a smile. If you look in the mirror and aren't happy with your smile, now's the perfect time to change it! Clear aligners and retainers are more accessible and affordable than ever before. They straighten your teeth over time while being discreet...

    Read More
  • What's the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Retainers?

    What's the Difference Between Clear Aligners and Retainers?

    On the surface, aligners and retainers seem pretty similar. Both are made of clear plastic and used for orthodontic treatment. However, they have two different goals — aligners are meant to move your teeth into new positions, while retainers keep your teeth in their final...

    Read More
  • The Do's and Don'ts of Wearing a Retainer

    The Do's and Don'ts of Wearing a Retainer

    You should always follow your dentist's directions for wearing a retainer to ensure the investment you put into having a straight smile lasts for years to come. Adhering to the do's and don'ts of wearing a retainer is vital to keeping your teeth straight and...

    Read More
  • 14 Tips for a Healthier Smile

    14 Tips for a Healthier Smile

    A smile is often one of the first things people notice about us, and many people take great pride in having an attractive smile. However, the importance of having a healthy smile goes beyond mere appearances. The health of our teeth and gums is directly tied...

    Read More
  • How to Get Rid of Yellow Staining From Braces

    How to Get Rid of Yellow Staining From Braces

    The moment your braces come off is a major high point in your life. You've spent a lot of time waiting and working to achieve the straight teeth and radiant smile you've always dreamed of. But sometimes when the braces come off, your smile isn't quite...

    Read More
  • How to Preserve Your Clear Retainers

    How to Preserve Your Clear Retainers

    Retainers are vital for straightening your smile. Even when you're done with aligners or braces, your retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back into their misaligned positions. Because these appliances are essential, it's useful to know how to preserve your clear retainers. You'll help them...

    Read More
  • The Science Behind Teeth Movement

    The Science Behind Teeth Movement

    Many people experience a moment where they notice something new about their physical appearance. This is especially true with teeth. You could smile at yourself in the mirror and realize that things are different than they were last time you checked. "Was that gap always...

    Read More
  • How to Get Rid of Aligner Smell

    How to Get Rid of Aligner Smell

    As a user of clear plastic aligners, you care about your teeth, and you want your smile to look great. The clear plastic makes the process discreet so you can wear your aligners with confidence while hanging out with friends and family or meeting people...

    Read More
  • Why Do Aligners and Retainers Get Holes?

    Why Do Aligners and Retainers Get Holes?

    You wear your aligners almost all day, so it's not surprising that they can become damaged. But, why do aligners and retainers get holes and other damage? There are a few different ways this can happen. Take a look at the guide below to learn...

    Read More