What causes bad odours on your Retainer or Denture

Retainer and denture odours can be a common and embarrassing problem for people who wear these types of dental appliances. Whether you wear a retainer to straighten your teeth or a denture to replace missing teeth, it's important to take good care of your appliances to prevent odours from forming. In this blog post, we'll discuss the causes of retainer and denture odours and provide some tips on how to clean and freshen up your appliances.

What causes retainer and denture odours?

Retainer and denture odours are usually caused by the buildup of bacteria and food particles on the appliances. When you wear a retainer or denture, it can be difficult to clean all the nooks and crannies, and bacteria and food particles can get trapped in these areas. Over time, these particles can begin to decompose and produce an unpleasant smell.

Additionally, certain types of food and drinks can cause odours to form on retainers and dentures. For example, foods that are high in protein, such as dairy products and meats, can cause odours to form more quickly. Similarly, beverages like coffee and tea can leave stains and odours on the appliances.

How to clean and freshen up your retainer or denture

There are several steps you can take to clean and freshen up your retainer or denture:

  1. Rinse your appliances thoroughly after eating. It's important to rinse your appliances thoroughly after each meal to remove food particles and bacteria. Use lukewarm water and gently brush the appliances with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

  2. Soak your appliances in a cleaning solution. There are several types of cleaning solutions available specifically for dental appliances, such as effervescent tablets and soaking solutions. We recommend Dentasheen Retainer Cleaner Follow the instructions on the product to soak your appliances in the solution for the recommended amount of time.

  3. Use a denture or retainer cleaner. These cleaners are specifically formulated to remove stains and odours from dental appliances. Follow the instructions on the product to use it effectively.

  4. Avoid certain foods and drinks. As mentioned earlier, certain foods and drinks can cause odours to form on your appliances more quickly. To prevent odours from forming, try to avoid these types of food and drink, or at least rinse your appliances thoroughly after consuming them.

  5. Replace your appliances regularly. Over time, dental appliances can become worn and may no longer fit properly. If your appliances are more than a few years old, it's a good idea to have them checked by a dentist and replaced if necessary.

By following these tips, you can keep your retainer and denture odours under control and ensure that your appliances are clean and fresh. Remember to brush and floss your natural teeth regularly as well to maintain good oral hygiene.