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Some people view retainers as a temporary inconvenience, something to endure for a while and then forget about. However, thatās simply not the case! Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining your dental health by keeping your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. But if you've been diligent about wearing your retainer daily, you might have noticed an unpleasant smell developing over time. This is due to the buildup of bacteria and plaque, which creates an odor when mixed with saliva.
Luckily, you can eliminate the bacteria causing the bad smell by cleaning your retainer thoroughly. Hereās how often you should clean it and the best way to do so.
The Important Role of Your Retainer
As its name suggests, a retainerās purpose is to "retain" your teeth in their new positions. After spending months or even years working on your perfect smile and bite, you want to do everything you can to preserve those results.
Braces and aligners donāt just move the visible part of your teeth; they also adjust the roots. After these roots are shifted, they need extra support to become stable in their new locations. This is where retainers come in.
In the months following your treatment, your jawbone will reshape itself around the tooth roots, strengthening them to handle chewing and biting forces. During the initial stage, you'll need to wear your retainer for most of the day. As your teeth become more stable, you can wear it less frequently.
What Causes a Retainer to Smell?
It may come as a surprise, but your mouth is home to a variety of beneficial microorganisms. As these bacteria grow, they release gases, which is one reason for the unpleasant odor from your retainer. Additionally, bacteria facilitate the buildup of tartar and plaque on both your teeth and retainer. When plaque accumulates, it can cause a distinct odor to develop, which is not something you want to ingest. You can reduce bacterial growth and keep the smell at bay with proper care.
Causes of Bad Odor
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Bacterial Growth
There are numerous types of bacteria in your mouth, and they can transfer to the surface of your retainer. Over time, bacteria multiply and contribute to unpleasant odors. -
Food Debris
Wearing a retainer while eating can trap food particles, which decompose and produce a bad smell. -
Inadequate Cleaning
If retainers are not cleaned properly, bacteria, plaque, and food particles will accumulate, leading to odor issues. -
Plaque Accumulation
Like teeth, retainers can collect plaque if not cleaned regularly. This plaque holds bacteria, which intensify the smell. -
Retainer Material
Some materials, like acrylic or plastic, are more porous and absorb odors more readily. -
Moisture
Storing retainers in damp places encourages bacterial growth, leading to bad smells. -
Smoking
Smoking or using tobacco products while wearing a retainer can cause it to absorb and retain the smell.
Understanding Your Retainer
Proper cleaning depends on the type of retainer you have. The three main types are:
Fixed (Bonded) Retainers
Fixed retainers, also known as bonded or permanent retainers, are made up of a metal wire that is cemented to the rear of your front teeth. It is not possible to remove a fixed retainer on your own. Only your orthodontist can remove the appliance in the office. Fixed retainers do not interfere with the ability to eat or speak.
Although they might be more difficult to clean, you shouldn't notice them after a few days of use.
Hawley Retainers
When most people think of a retainer, the one that usually comes to mind is the Hawley retainer, which is also called a wire retainer. As far as retainers go, this one is the most tried-and-true option.
These removable retainers are made of a hard plastic component that is custom-molded to fit against the palate and a metal wire that is affixed to wrap around the front of the teeth. Hawley retainers come in many colors.
Clear Plastic Retainers
Clear plastic retainers are gaining popularity quickly as a form of retainer. Similar to clear aligners, this latest type of orthodontic treatment has a highly modern look. Made of thin, translucent plastic, these removable, personalized retainers fit snugly over your teeth. They are completely discreet. These retainers are the most effective at maintaining your teeth's new alignment, according to several orthodontists.
Retainer Cleaning Guide
For Hawley and Clear Plastic Retainers, follow these steps:
- Rinse Immediately: After removing your retainer, rinse it while itās still moist to remove debris.
- Brush Regularly: Brush your retainer with lukewarm water after every meal, using a soft brush.
- Deep Clean: Use mild dish soap and lukewarm water for a more thorough clean. Avoid using toothpaste, as it may scratch the retainer.
- Soak Occasionally: Consult your dentist about soaking your retainer in cleaning solutions like Efferdent. Dissolve the tablet in lukewarm water and follow the package instructions.
- Handling Stubborn Debris: If residue remains, consult your dentist for professional cleaning.
For Fixed Retainers, daily flossing is key:
- Floss Threading: Use a floss threader to guide the floss between your lower front teeth and under the retainer wire.
- Thorough Flossing: Move the floss up and down between your teeth, ensuring you reach below the gum line.
Removable Retainer Care Tips
- Avoid Heat Damage: Retainers can warp from heat, so avoid hot water, microwaves, or dishwashers.
- Minimize Chemical Use: Use mild cleaning solutions rather than harsh chemicals to avoid damage.
- Short Soaks: Avoid soaking retainers longer than recommended, as this can damage metal components.
- Keep the Case Clean: Regularly wash your retainer case with warm, soapy water.
Donāt Forget Your Retainer Case
Most people forget to clean their retainer case, but this is a common source of bacteria transfer. By not cleaning the case daily, germs accumulate, and each time you place your retainer inside, the bacteria transfer onto it. Daily case cleaning is necessary, and for a deeper clean, you can run it through the dishwasher once a week.
Final Thoughts
Bad odors in retainers can be caused by food particles, bacteria buildup, and plaque accumulation. Proper cleaning and storage are essential for keeping your retainer fresh. Use cleaning tablets, mild dish soap, or vinegar soaks to maintain its cleanliness. A clean retainer not only protects your teeth but also ensures your smile stays bright.
FAQs
Why does my retainer develop an odor?
Retainers can start to smell due to the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and food particles. Over time, these elements can produce an unpleasant odor, especially if the retainer isn't cleaned regularly.
How often should I clean my retainer to prevent bad smells?
You should clean your retainer daily, ideally right after removing it from your mouth. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and plaque, which are the main causes of bad odors.
Can I use toothpaste to clean my retainer?
It's not recommended to use toothpaste for cleaning retainers, as it can be too abrasive and damage the material. Instead, use lukewarm water, mild dish soap, or specialized retainer cleaning tablets.
How do I keep my retainer case clean?
Clean your retainer case daily with warm, soapy water, and consider running it through the dishwasher once a week for a more thorough cleaning. This helps prevent bacteria from transferring from the case to your retainer.
How long does a retainer last before it needs to be replaced?
Retainers can last for several years with proper care. Hawley retainers can last 5-10 years, while clear plastic retainers may need to be replaced every 6 months to a few years, depending on wear and tear.
