Retainer care that keeps your retainer working longer

Retainer Care Hub: Overview · Cleaning · Storage · Repair vs replace · Product picks · Dog chewed it? · Care guide (PDF)

Start here

• How to clean a retainer — a 2-minute daily routine and a weekly deep clean, plus what to avoid (hot water, harsh soaks).
• How to store a retainer — the case habit that prevents most lost and broken retainers.
• Repair vs replace — which damage is usually fixable by mail and when a new retainer makes more sense.
• Retainer care product picks — cleaners, cases, and brushes worth having.
• My dog chewed my retainer — what to do right now, and when a chewed Hawley or acrylic retainer can be repaired.
• Retainer Emergency Kit Checklist (printable, $4) — first-hour steps, kit list, and care schedule on two pages.
• The Retainer Care & Emergency Guide (PDF) — everything on these pages in one printable guide.

The three habits that matter most

1. Rinse and brush it daily with cool or lukewarm water and a soft brush.
2. Case it every time it is out of your mouth — never a napkin or pocket.
3. Keep it away from heat — hot water, dishwashers, dashboards, and microwaves can warp plastic and acrylic.

Already broken? Hawley and acrylic retainers can often be fixed by mail. See repair packages and prices →

Printable: Retainer Emergency Kit Checklist

A 2-page printable for your bathroom cabinet or travel bag: what to do in the first hour after a break, what to keep, a travel and emergency kit list, a storage and cleaning schedule, and when to call your dentist or orthodontist.

$4.00 · instant PDF download

Includes code CARE10: $10 off one Smile Extension retainer repair.

Buy the checklist · $4 with PayPal

Secure checkout through PayPal (card or PayPal balance). After payment you are sent straight to the download page. Trouble downloading? Email smilextechnologies@gmail.com with your PayPal receipt. Want the full routine? See the Retainer Care & Emergency Guide ($12).

General care information only — not medical or dental advice. If your retainer no longer fits, hurts, or your teeth feel like they are moving, contact the dental professional who provided it.