Wearing a retainer is a common part of orthodontic treatment, helping to maintain the alignment of teeth after braces. Many individuals using these appliances often wonder if there’s a connection between their retainer use and the appearance of canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers. This concern is valid, as retainers can indeed contribute to the development of these uncomfortable mouth lesions for some people.
Understanding Canker Sores
Canker sores are small, shallow ulcers that develop inside the mouth, characterized by a white or yellowish center surrounded by a distinct red border. They form on the soft tissues of the mouth, including the inside of the lips and cheeks, on the tongue, or on the soft palate. Various factors can trigger their appearance, though their exact cause is often not fully understood. These sores are not contagious and heal on their own, with pain improving within a few days and resolving within one to two weeks.
How Retainers Can Lead to Canker Sores
Retainers can contribute to canker sores primarily through mechanical irritation. An ill-fitting or broken retainer can rub against the delicate lining of the mouth, causing minor tissue trauma. This consistent rubbing or pressure can create small abrasions or irritated areas, which may then develop into canker sores.
Material sensitivity is another factor. Individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the acrylics or metals used in certain retainers. Reactions can manifest as redness, swelling, or discomfort, creating an environment conducive to sore development.
Poor oral hygiene also plays a role. Retainers can harbor bacteria and plaque if not cleaned regularly, leading to oral infections or inflammation. This increases the likelihood of canker sores forming on irritated tissues.
Steps to Prevent Canker Sores with Retainers
Preventing canker sores while wearing a retainer involves diligent oral care and attention to the retainer itself. Cleaning your retainer daily involves brushing it gently with a soft-bristled brush and soaking it in a specialized cleaning solution designed for retainers or dentures. Avoid using toothpaste on retainers, as its abrasive properties can cause microscopic scratches.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is also important. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily to remove food particles and plaque. If your retainer feels uncomfortable, causes persistent rubbing, or appears damaged, contact your orthodontist promptly for assessment and adjustment. Also, avoid harsh mouthwashes containing irritating ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate.
When to Consult a Dentist or Orthodontist
Consult a dentist or orthodontist if canker sores are recurring or persistent while wearing a retainer. Seek attention if a sore lasts longer than two weeks without healing. Large or painful sores that interfere with eating, drinking, or speaking also warrant a visit.
Also consult a professional if you experience a fever with canker sores, or if the retainer is visibly damaged, cracked, or causing significant discomfort. A dental professional can assess your retainer’s fit, rule out other causes for the sores, or recommend treatments to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.