HomeAnswersOrthodontistdental retainerWhy did my retainers develop a black-mold like discoloration?

How to use and maintain dental retainers after orthodontic treatment?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At January 11, 2023
Reviewed AtJuly 28, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I underwent braces treatment two years back. Permanent retainers were fixed on my upper and lower teeth. I just found a black mold-like discoloration on my removable retainers. Can it be saved? Or should it be replaced immediately? Please help.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. The main purpose of retainers is to hold the tooth in position after the completion of the braces treatment. The jaw bone is immature after orthodontic treatment, and it takes approximately one year for the bone to mature and hold the teeth. Hence, it is important to wear the retainers during the first year after completion of the treatment. Since permanent retainers, as well as removable ones, are given to you, it is not essential to replace the removable retainers immediately. However, I suggest you consult the dentist to evaluate the position of the teeth and the permanent retainers. The measurements for removable ones also can be done. Removable retainers should be replaced once in six to eight months as they do not last long. The material starts to degrade due to its constant contact with saliva and other oral fluids. I suggest you replace the retainers because it has been two years since the completion of the treatment. You can wear the removable ones at night. I hope this has helped you out.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Mayank Khandelwal
Dr. Mayank Khandelwal

Orthodontist

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