What grows on a dirty retainer? Cariogenic bacteria can thrive around clear aligners and retainers.
The idea of using an ultrasonic cleaner on a retainer appeals to me! Bacteria and fungi hate it. You can eliminate odors and bacteria easily with ultrasonics.
Join us in Medical History Mysteries to find out what you need to know and how you can help your patients keep their retainers as clean as possible.
Thumbnail image credit: 2138905922 / ozgurcankaya / E+ via Getty Images
More Medical History Mysteries videos …
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Editor’s note: This article first appeared in Clinical Insights newsletter, a publication of the Endeavor Business Media Dental Group. Read more articles and subscribe.
About the Author

Pamela Maragliano, DMD
Pamela Maragliano, DMD, is the chief editor of Dental Economics. Based in Salem, Massachusetts, Dr. Maragliano began her clinical career as a dental hygienist. She went on to attend Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, where she earned her doctorate in dental medicine. She then attended the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dental Medicine, where she became board-certified in prosthodontics. Dr. Maragliano owns a private practice, Salem Dental Arts, and lectures on a variety of clinical topics. You may contact her at [email protected].

Tom Viola, RPh, CCP
With more than 30 years’ experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker, and published author, Tom Viola, RPh, CCP, has earned the reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for dental teams. He is the founder of Pharmacology Declassified and is a member of the faculty of more than 10 dental professional degree programs. Viola has contributed to several professional journals and pharmacology textbooks, and currently serves as a consultant to the American Dental Association’s Council on Scientific Affairs.