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A 40-year-old member asked:

I have a nonremovable retainer, how can i clean it?

2 doctor answers4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Michael Cari
Dentistry - Orthodontics 17 years experience
Floss Threader: I would recommend that you use a floss threader or floss with a stiff plastic end (e.g. Super floss) to allow you to floss between your teeth. You insert it from the facial and thread under the wire to clean around it. This should be done daily. There are electric "flossers" available that are stiff, and actuated by a motor. See your general denitist every six months for professional cleaning.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Arnold Malerman
Orthodontics 55 years experience
Remove bugs: To clean fixed retainers requires removing "bugs" (bacteria) from teeth and retainer parts. Brush at least 2 full minutes 2x/day. Use floss threader or superfloss under the wire every day, or use water pik every day. See your dentist as often as recommended for professional cleaning.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

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Last updated Nov 11, 2013
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