A retainer is a custom-made dental appliance designed to maintain teeth alignment after orthodontic treatment, preserving the results achieved by braces or aligners. The common question of whether to wear the retainer while showering has a clear answer: orthodontic professionals generally recommend removing it. This protects the appliance’s material integrity and minimizes hygiene risks.
How Heat and Steam Affect Retainer Integrity
The primary concern with wearing a retainer in the shower is exposure to elevated temperatures from hot water and steam, which can physically compromise the device. Many modern retainers, such as clear aligner-style or Essix retainers, are made from thermoplastic materials highly susceptible to heat.
When these materials are exposed to temperatures significantly above body temperature, such as in a prolonged hot shower, they can soften and undergo thermal deformation. Even a subtle distortion can compromise the retainer’s tight, custom fit. If the retainer no longer seats precisely against the teeth, it ceases to effectively hold the dental alignment, potentially leading to orthodontic relapse.
Traditional Hawley retainers, which consist of an acrylic plate and a metal wire, also face heat risks. While the metal component is unaffected, the acrylic portion can warp under high heat, similar to thermoplastic materials. The retainer’s ability to maintain the teeth’s position relies entirely on its intended shape, and any heat-induced alteration means the device may no longer function. This loss of fit can require an expensive replacement.
Hygiene Risks Associated with Showering
Beyond the risk of physical damage from heat, showering with a retainer introduces hygiene concerns related to chemical exposure. The appliance can contact various substances used in the shower, including soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. These personal care products are not designed for oral appliances and can leave a sticky residue on the retainer’s surface.
This residue can cause an unpleasant taste or oral irritation, and it creates an ideal surface for bacteria to multiply. The warm, moist environment of a shower is already conducive to microbial growth, and product residue exacerbates the risk of bacterial buildup. A contaminated retainer introduces unwanted microorganisms back into the mouth, affecting oral health.
Furthermore, shower water often contains dissolved minerals, especially in homes with hard water. Evaporation of water droplets can leave behind mineral deposits. This buildup can cloud clear plastic, making the retainer appear dirty, and potentially alter the surface texture or fit. The shower environment does not substitute for a proper cleaning routine, which requires specific products and techniques to remove plaque.
Best Practices for Retainer Removal and Care
Since wearing a retainer in the shower is not recommended, developing a routine for its removal and storage is important for long-term use. When removing the retainer, always place it immediately into a dedicated, ventilated storage case. This prevents accidental loss or damage, such as being knocked off a counter or mistakenly discarded.
Daily cleaning should involve gently brushing the appliance with a soft-bristled brush and mild, non-abrasive soap or non-whitening toothpaste. Abrasive cleaning agents, including standard whitening toothpastes, can scratch the retainer’s surface, creating crevices where bacteria can colonize. Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or boiling water, as these will damage the material.
For a deeper clean, incorporate approved soaking solutions, such as specialized effervescent retainer cleaning tablets or a diluted mixture of white vinegar and water. These solutions help disinfect the appliance and remove hardened plaque buildup. Always rinse the retainer thoroughly with cool or lukewarm water before placing it back into your mouth to ensure no residue remains.