Why should you keep your orthodontic retainers clean?

Like other personal items, a person uses retainers every day, and since they are placed in the mouth and on the teeth, they cause bacteria and plaque buildup. If the orthodontic retainer is contaminated, it will not sit well on the teeth and will not perform its task properly. In addition, if the retainer is contaminated, no matter how much the patient takes care of the teeth by taking care of oral hygiene, brushing and flossing, the contamination of the retainer always exposes the teeth to harmful bacteria. Harmful bacteria cause plaque formation on the teeth and not only cause bad breath, but also make the teeth vulnerable to various complications, including cavities and infections in the oral mucosa.