Retainers maintain tooth alignment after orthodontic treatment, preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Since these devices are worn for extended periods, understanding how daily activities like swimming affect them is important. The safety and practicality of swimming with a retainer depend entirely on the specific type of appliance used. This guide addresses the necessary precautions for both fixed and removable retainers when entering the water.
Fixed vs. Removable Retainers: The Quick Answer
Retainers fall into two main categories: fixed and removable. Fixed retainers, sometimes called permanent retainers, consist of a thin wire bonded to the back of the front teeth, usually the lower ones. Since this type is cemented directly to the teeth, it can be safely submerged in water without issue.
Removable retainers, which include clear plastic aligner-style trays or traditional Hawley retainers with wire and acrylic, are designed to be taken out of the mouth. The general recommendation for these types is to remove them before swimming, especially during vigorous activity. Removing them prevents potential damage and loss, which outweighs the benefit of keeping them in for a short time.
Primary Risks: Loss and Chemical Exposure
The primary hazard associated with wearing a removable retainer while swimming is the risk of losing it. Active movements like diving, jumping, or even a sudden splash can dislodge the appliance from the mouth. Once separated, the clear plastic or wire retainer is nearly impossible to locate in a pool, lake, or ocean, resulting in an expensive replacement.
Beyond the risk of loss, the chemical composition of the water can compromise the retainer material itself. Pool water contains chlorine, which over time can degrade the plastic polymer or acrylic, potentially leading to discoloration, cloudiness, or weakening the structural integrity of the device. Similarly, the high salt content of ocean water or the bacteria present in natural bodies of water can adhere to the retainer, creating a significant hygiene concern. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals shortens the lifespan of the appliance.
Post-Swim Hygiene and Care
If a removable retainer is accidentally worn while swimming, immediate and thorough cleaning is necessary. The first step is to rinse the retainer immediately with clean, cool water to wash away any residual chlorine, salt, or microbes. This rapid rinsing minimizes the contact time between the foreign chemicals and the appliance material.
Following the initial rinse, the retainer should be cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush and an approved cleaning solution or mild, non-abrasive soap. Avoid using toothpaste, as the abrasive components can create micro-scratches in the plastic, which then become breeding grounds for bacteria. After cleaning, ensure the retainer is completely dry before storing it in its ventilated case; never store a wet retainer in a closed container, as this encourages bacterial growth.
Special Considerations for Permanent Retainers
Fixed retainers are generally safe for swimming because they are bonded to the teeth, but they require specific maintenance afterward. The adhesive used to secure the wire is strong, yet exposure to the low pH levels often found in chlorinated pool water can potentially weaken the bond over time. Consistent exposure and acidic conditions may compromise the long-term integrity of the cement.
The main concern with fixed retainers after any water exposure relates to oral hygiene. Water chemicals and organic matter can become trapped around the wire and the bonding adhesive, accelerating the buildup of plaque and tartar. Swimmers with fixed retainers must be diligent about flossing using a floss threader or specialized product, ensuring they clean thoroughly beneath the wire and around the bonded areas after swimming. This attention to detail is necessary to prevent localized gum irritation or the development of cavities immediately adjacent to the retainer.