Teeth Retainers

In Melbourne, you’re typically looking at $200-$600 for retainers, depending on which type you get. At MC Dental, we offer flexible payment options because we believe this essential maintenance shouldn’t be out of reach.

Yes, absolutely! But water’s the only thing you should be drinking with your retainer in. Hot drinks, sugary ones, acidic beverages – they can all damage your retainer or increase your risk of tooth decay by trapping liquids between the retainer and your teeth.

That tightness means your teeth may have started to shift slightly. Try wearing your retainer again as soon as possible , a little tightness is normal. If the retainer feels slightly tight but still fits over your teeth, increase your wear time (for example, from a few nights a week back to every night) until it feels comfortable again. If it feels too tight to seat properly or causes pain, don’t force it. Keep it safe and give us a call — we can check the fit and see if an adjustment or new retainer is needed. Chewies can also help improve how your retainer seats.

Sometimes they can! If your teeth have only moved a little bit, wearing your retainer consistently might guide them back into position. But this really depends on how long it’s been since you wore your retainer and how much your teeth have shifted. If your retainer feels tight or doesn’t fit properly, best to come in for an assessment.

Always, always use its designated case. Never wrap it in tissue or chuck it loose in your bag, that’s the number one way retainers get lost! Keep the case away from heat sources and away from pets (dogs especially love chewing them). Give your retainer a quick rinse before storing it so saliva doesn’t dry on it.

Persistent smells usually mean there’s bacterial buildup in tiny cracks or pores you can’t see. Try soaking it in a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water for 20 minutes, then give it a gentle brush with a soft toothbrush. Still smelly? It might be time for a replacement – odours can indicate the retainer material’s breaking down. Best to consult your dentist.

Cleaning your orthodontic retainers every day is non-negotiable for hygiene and making them last longer. Rinse it with cool water as soon as you take it out, then gently brush all the surfaces with a soft-bristled toothbrush that’s just for your retainer. Don’t use regular toothpaste as it’s too harsh and creates microscopic scratches where bacteria set up camp. Mild, unscented liquid soap or plain water works fine for daily cleaning. Once a week, give it a deep clean with retainer cleaning tablets from the pharmacy; just follow what it says on the packet. Always rinse thoroughly before putting your retainer back in, and keep it in its case when you’re not wearing it.

Hold it over a folded towel or a sink filled with water. This way, if you drop it, it won’t break. Use your soft-bristled brush with cool water, not hot! Clean every surface gently. Don’t forget the bits that touch your gums. Please pay extra attention to any grooves or crevices. That’s where plaque loves to hide. Rinse thoroughly before you store it or put it back in.

No, don’t do this unless your dentist specifically prescribes it. Most whitening gels will damage retainer materials and can irritate your mouth when used incorrectly. We offer professional teeth whitening options that are both safe and actually effective.

With good care and depending on wear time: Clear removable retainers typically last 1-2+ years, Hawley retainers can last 5+ years, and fixed retainers can last 5-10+ years but may need repair, adjustment, or reattachment during that time. When you see cracks, warping, or looseness, or if it stays cloudy or smelly despite proper cleaning, you’ll know it’s time for a replacement. We recommend getting your retainer checked annually as part of your regular dental visits.