After more than a decade of using dental retainers, this ultrasonic pod has transformed the way I clean them.
PSA: Stop brushing your three-digit dental device!
Recently, a product called Zima Dental Pod has gained popularity on social media, especially on Instagram, where it has been promoted through advertisements. This device, considered the first ultrasonic cleaner for oral appliances, promises to revolutionize the cleaning of retainers, Invisalign aligners, and other dental devices. It is described as a bowl that connects to a power source and uses high-frequency ultrasonic waves to remove dirt and bacteria from hard-to-reach places by simply submerging the appliance in water.
Intrigued by its functionality, especially after having unsatisfactory past experiences using a toothbrush to clean my retainers, I decided to try the Zima Dental Pod. The company sent me a unit of the Arctic White model, although it is also available in other colors like Sky Blue, Rose Pink, and Jet Black. Upon opening the package, I found a small supply of cleaning tablets, a power adapter, and an instruction manual.
The design of the Pod is attractive, and its size and weight make it suitable for placing on a nightstand or in the kitchen. The inside is lined with stainless steel and features a level measurement to know how much water to add. After filling the bowl, a cleaning tablet is added, and it is allowed to effervesce for two minutes.
To use it, the retainers are inserted, the lid is placed on, and the device is turned on. It emits a gentle humming sound for five minutes and then automatically stops, eliminating the worry of damaging the appliances. After trying it, I noticed that the Pod indeed left my retainers visibly cleaner. Although deep, permanent cleaning of certain stains remains a challenge, it is quite effective as an alternative to manual cleaning.
The package includes only six tablets, but those who have used retainers for a long time probably have enough tablets from other brands that can work just as well. Additionally, the Pod can function adequately even without tablets, as daily cleaning can be done with just one or two tablets per week.
However, the cost of the Zima Dental Pod could be considered a drawback, as its price is $99.99 in the U.S. and £79.99 in the UK, with a slight discount during the holiday sales. Nevertheless, many would agree that having a flawless smile is worth the investment.
