A fresh, confident smile starts with a little daily care.
Your retainer spends hours in your mouth—every night—so it makes sense that it needs regular care. Just like your skin or your smile, your clear retainer can collect bacteria, plaque, and buildup over time if not properly cleaned.
Keeping it fresh is about more than appearance. It helps prevent:
Unwanted odors
Cloudy or discolored plastic
Bacterial growth
A shorter retainer lifespan
The good news? It’s incredibly easy to maintain. And if you’re just starting your retainer journey, brands like NewSmile make it simple to get started from home.
No need for fancy tools or complicated products—retainer care should fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Here’s an easy daily habit that takes less than a minute:
Step 1: Rinse your retainer with cool or lukewarm water as soon as you take it out
Step 2: Gently brush it using a soft toothbrush (not your regular one)
Step 3: Use mild soap or a non-abrasive retainer cleaner—no toothpaste, as it can scratch
Step 4: Let it air dry completely before putting it in the case
This quick routine keeps your retainer clear, odor-free, and comfortable to wear.
Just like your favorite water bottle or skincare tool, your retainer needs a deeper clean now and then. Here’s how to give it a spa day:
Soak in a mix of white vinegar and water (50/50) for 15–20 minutes
Use baking soda and water to gently scrub away buildup
Try a retainer-safe cleansing tablet once a week for convenience
Always rinse thoroughly and dry before storing
If your retainer still looks cloudy or smells off even after cleaning, it might be time for a replacement. You can easily order a new custom one through NewSmile’s clear retainer service.
Life’s busy. Whether you’re heading to work, traveling, or just tossing your retainer in your bag after brunch, here’s how to store it properly:
Do: Keep it in a ventilated case when not in use
Do: Clean your case weekly too
Don’t: Wrap it in a napkin (easy to lose!)
Don’t: Leave it in direct sunlight or a hot car—it can warp
And just like replacing your toothbrush, plan to refresh your retainer every 6–12 months depending on wear. NewSmile makes it easy to reorder your custom-fit tray from home.
Your clear retainer is a small but powerful part of your oral care routine. With just a few simple steps—and the right products—you’ll keep your retainer (and your smile) in its best shape for years to come.
New to retainers or need a replacement? NewSmile’s custom retainers are made from the same materials used by orthodontists—and shipped straight to your door.
