An old or dirty retainer case can harbor bacteria, undoing your cleaning efforts. It’s time to replace your retainer case if:
No—pets are often attracted to the smell of saliva on retainers. Chewing on the appliance can be dangerous for the pet and damaging to the retainer. If your retainer has been chewed or otherwise compromised, discontinue using it and contact your orthodontist for a replacement. Always store your retainer in a sealed case out of your pet’s reach.
Just because you’re not home doesn’t mean you can skip out on cleaning your retainer. When you’re traveling, bring a travel-size cleaning kit that includes a soft-bristled brush, a mild soap or specialized retainer cleanser, and a compact container for soaking. You should also always carry a sturdy, ventilated retainer case in your carry-on or day bag so you can rinse and store your appliance safely while on the go. Even if you’re on a different schedule or in a new environment, it’s essential to maintain your daily rinse and brushing routine.
If the retainer isn’t dried properly or if there are micro-cracks, bacteria can linger. Consistently consuming strong-smelling foods or drinks can also contribute to odor. If you notice a smell after cleaning, try a weekly soak with a retainer-cleaning tablet or use a baking soda paste. If the odor persists, contact your orthodontist, as there may be microscopic damage or material breakdown that requires professional help.
It’s best to avoid soaking your retainer in standard mouthwash. Many mouthwashes contain alcohol or other harsh ingredients that can weaken retainer materials or cause discoloration. If you like the minty-fresh feeling, use an alcohol-free mouth rinse and only briefly swish it with your retainer in place. Always follow up with a thorough rinse under lukewarm water.
A deep bite might initially be identified due to its visual impact. However, it often carries several health concerns, including accelerated upper and lower front teeth wear, potential jaw discomfort, gum recession, and increased risk of chipping the front teeth.
Deep bites typically do not resolve on their own, and if left untreated, they can worsen and lead to further orthodontic issues. Factors such as tooth wear or habits like teeth grinding can sometimes exacerbate the condition in adults.
“Deep bite” and “overbite” are often used interchangeably to describe a malocclusion where the upper front teeth significantly cover the lower front teeth vertically. This is often confused with an overjet, which refers to the horizontal distance between the upper and lower front teeth. Commonly known as “buck teeth,” overjet occurs when the upper front teeth extend forward at an angle, whereas an overbite or deep bite occurs when the upper front teeth vertically cover the bottom front teeth.
If overlooked, crossbites can trigger jaw misalignment, uneven jaw growth, premature wearing of the tooth enamel, facial asymmetry, and improper chewing, among other dental issues.
No, not all crossbites are the same. A crossbite represents a form of malocclusion, characterized by a misalignment of teeth where the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can impact individual teeth or groups of teeth, encompassing the front, back, or both sets. In a posterior crossbite, the back teeth are affected, with upper teeth situated inside the lower teeth. Conversely, an anterior crossbite involves the front teeth, where one or more upper teeth are positioned behind the lower teeth. It’s important to distinguish this from an underbite, where either the upper teeth or jaw are positioned behind the lower teeth. Each type of crossbite can have implications for dental health and may require orthodontic intervention to correct alignment issues and prevent further complications.
