'I'm a dentist - beware of this oral health problem it causes gum disease'
Over 45% of UK adults in the UK are plagued by gum disease, a harrowing condition that assaults not only teeth but also delivers acute pain and triggers bleeding, as detailed in research from SmileCare.
A dental expert has sounded an alarming note about the disease, attributing the likelihood of developing it to one frequently disregarded misstep. Dr Andrej Bozic, oral surgery specialist at Dentum, revealed the pivotal factor is the cleanliness of dental products like retainers and Invisalign trays.
"Brushing your retainers or clear aligners with a hard toothbrush can create tiny scratches on the surface," he said. "These grooves can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria, which can then transfer to your gums and lead to infections, inflammation and eventually gum disease."
Dr Bozic highlighted that bacterial accumulation might escape notice despite its progressive worsening. Meticulous teeth cleaning twice daily won't avert the impact of this oversight, he underscored.
He went on: "Keeping your retainers clean is just as important as brushing your teeth. A little extra care goes a long way in protecting your gums and your overall oral health."
How should you clean your retainer?
Instead of a toothbrush, Dr Bozic urges the public to use soaking solutions instead. Here are the steps he recommends:
Soak in cleaning solution
"Use a retainer cleaning solution or denture cleaner to soak your aligners daily," he said. These are specifically designed to remove bacteria without damaging the material.Rinse with lukewarm water
He added: "Rinsing your retainers under lukewarm water after every meal helps to wash away food particles and bacteria." Despite this, it's important to avoid hot water as it can warp the plastic.Use a soft brush for tough spots
A gentle soft-bristled brush without toothpaste can be used for tough spots inside aligners. "Toothpaste can be too abrasive for retainers, so itâs important to use something gentler."Avoid using mouthwash
Dr Bozic warned that the alcohol in mouthwash can damage the plastic and make cleaning less effective.
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