Gifts for someone with a retainer or clear aligners: build a retainer kit

A case, a dedicated toothbrush and a pack of cleaning tablets cover the daily and weekly routine the AAO describes. For clear aligners, add chewies. An ultrasonic cleaner makes the bigger gift.

For some routines. Owners commonly report cleaner appliances than with brushing alone, and the AAO names ultrasonic cleaners and solutions as one option, on top of the daily brush. Zima says anyone with a pacemaker should ask a physician first, and Align says not to use its Ultrasonic Cleaner at all if you have a pacemaker.

Aligner chewies, a travel brush with a cover, floss threaders for a bonded wire, and a small pouch for the case. Check with their orthodontist about anything they put in their mouth.

Retainer Brite and Efferdent both contain persulfates: their labels say not to use them with a persulfate allergy, to keep them from children, and never to put a tablet or the solution in the mouth. US Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222.

Often. The AAO says it is time for a new case when you notice visible cracks or wear, or the case smells even after cleaning, and KidsHealth says a retainer goes in its case whenever it comes out, never in a napkin.