If you have just got done with the torture of traditional braces, you know now comes the dental retainer era. You wear the retainer to keep your teeth straight, and you wear them all day or just at night when you go to bed. But do you have an idea for the bacteria in a dental retainer?
Maintaining your retainer clean keeps your mouth from being invaded by all the bacteria. If you are prone to just removing your retainer and not cleaning at the end of the day or in the morning, you may want to reconsider your daily dental routine.
All the Bacteria in a Dental Retainer is Shocking
When you put foreign objects in your mouth, even those meant to go there like your dental retainer, you may be introducing your body to harmful microbes that can make you sick.
Everyone’s mouth contains hundreds of different bacteria, most of which are benign or actually beneficial. But, studies show more than 50 percent of those who wear orthodontic retainers have more than bacteria those who don’t wear them.
The main culprits
According to researchers’ findings, there are two particular types of harmful bacteria which are not normally found in the mouth:
- Candida (a detrimental yeast): A type of yeast which lives in small amounts in our bellies and mouth.
- Staphylococcus (also known as a Staph infection): A common bacteria found on our skin but won’t cause disease.
Not only were these two found in the participants’ dental retainers, but on their tongues and in their cheeks. These bacteria live in something called biofilm – a thin layer of slime that houses bacteria colonies. Once established, you may find a biofilm very difficult to abolish.
No threat zone
The good news is that these bacteria do not usually pose a threat to those with healthy immune systems. If you have a weakened immune system, however, you must be extra careful. Cleaning your dental retainer regularly keeps the bacteria away. If you are unfamiliar with cleaning your retainer, your dentist can show you several techniques to properly maintain it. If you maintain good oral hygiene, excellent dental retainer maintenance, and visit your dentist regularly, the biofilm will go away and relieve the possibility more bacteria in your dental retainer.
Bellevue Dentists Here to Help You
Our Bellevue family dentistry is ready to help with your dental hygiene. We will show you the proper way to maintain your teeth clean and healthy. Schedule an appointment with us today!
