Why Does My Retainer Smell? Causes and Fixes

A retainer that smells is one of the most common complaints we hear. The smell is not coming from the plastic itself. It comes from bacteria living in the thin film of dried saliva and food particles that builds up on the retainer every time you wear it.

Why the smell builds up

Your mouth is warm and damp, and a retainer sits in it for hours. The film that forms on it, called plaque, is the same film that forms on your teeth. If the retainer goes straight into a closed case while it is still wet, the bacteria keep growing in the dark. Within a day or two, the retainer starts to smell.

How to get rid of the smell

1. Rinse right away. Rinse the retainer under cool water the moment you take it out.
2. Brush gently. Use a soft brush and plain water or mild soap to lift the film. Skip toothpaste, which scratches.
3. Deep clean. Soak the retainer with a retainer cleaner tablet or run it through an ultrasonic retainer cleaner. This reaches the grooves where the film hides.
4. Dry before storing. Let the retainer air dry for a few minutes before it goes back in the case.
5. Clean the case. A dirty case re-seeds a clean retainer. Wash it with soap and warm water and let it dry open.

How to keep it from coming back

Rinsing after every wear and deep cleaning a few times a week is usually enough. If the smell returns quickly even with regular cleaning, look at the case, and check whether your retainer has cracks or rough patches where buildup can hide.

When to see your orthodontist

If the retainer smells even right after cleaning, has hard white deposits that will not come off, or has a crack, ask your orthodontist whether it needs to be replaced.

This article is general care information and is not medical advice. Follow the instructions from your dentist, orthodontist or the maker of your appliance.