A retainer is a custom-made orthodontic device designed to stabilize teeth and maintain corrected alignment after braces or clear aligner therapy. Its primary function is to prevent teeth from shifting back toward their original positions, a phenomenon known as relapse. For those wearing a removable retainer, eating while wearing it is generally prohibited due to risks to both the appliance and long-term dental health.
The General Rule Why Eating is Prohibited
The prohibition against eating with a removable retainer stems from two major concerns: potential damage to the device and oral hygiene risks. Removable retainers, such as the clear plastic Essix type or the acrylic Hawley design, are not built to withstand the forces of chewing. Applying pressure from hard or chewy foods can easily crack the plastic material or bend the thin metal wires, which are designed for gentle pressure, not forceful impacts.
A device that has been warped or cracked will no longer hold the teeth correctly, potentially causing them to shift and compromising the effort of orthodontic correction. Replacing a damaged custom-made appliance can be costly and introduces a delay in treatment while a new one is fabricated.
The second risk involves accelerated dental decay. When food particles are chewed, they become trapped between the retainer and the teeth. Because the retainer forms a close barrier, it prevents saliva from washing away debris and neutralizing acids. This trapping effect allows bacteria to thrive, leading to rapid plaque buildup and an increased risk of cavities. Sticky foods, such as caramels or gum, can also adhere firmly to the retainer, potentially pulling or distorting the appliance upon removal.
Practical Exceptions What About Liquids
While solid foods are prohibited, the rule for liquids is slightly more nuanced, depending on the type of beverage. Clear, plain water is the only liquid generally considered safe to drink while wearing a removable retainer. Water is pH-neutral and does not contain sugars or pigments that could damage the appliance or promote bacterial growth.
Any other beverage should prompt the user to remove the retainer first. Sugary drinks, like soda or juice, allow sugar to seep beneath the appliance, which then holds the sugar and acid against the teeth, intensifying the risk of decay. Similarly, highly acidic beverages, such as citrus juice or carbonated drinks, can erode the enamel while the retainer traps the liquid against the tooth surface. Another concern is temperature, as hot liquids like coffee or tea can cause the plastic material of the retainer to soften or permanently warp its shape. Once the retainer is warped, its custom fit is lost, rendering it ineffective at holding the teeth in place.
Essential Care When Not Wearing the Retainer
Since the retainer must be removed for every meal and for most beverages, proper care during this downtime is necessary for maintaining its function and hygiene. The most basic rule is to always store the retainer in its designated, protective case immediately upon removal. This practice prevents the appliance from being accidentally lost, damaged, or mistakenly thrown away, a common occurrence when a retainer is wrapped in a napkin. The case itself should also be cleaned regularly with mild soap and water, as it can harbor bacteria just as easily as the appliance.
The retainer itself must be cleaned daily to remove the saliva, plaque, and bacteria that accumulate on its surface. Cleaning should involve gentle brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive cleaner, such as mild dish soap or specialized retainer cleanser. Toothpaste should be avoided because its abrasive particles can create tiny scratches in the plastic, providing microscopic harbors for bacteria and causing discoloration over time. For a deeper weekly clean, a solution of half water and half white vinegar or a baking soda paste can be used to soak the appliance briefly and remove mineral deposits.
It is important to rinse the appliance with lukewarm or cool water after every removal, and never with hot or boiling water, as high temperatures can permanently distort the plastic. Before reinserting the appliance, the teeth should be brushed or at least thoroughly rinsed to remove any food debris, ensuring the retainer is placed back into a clean mouth.