Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Causes Black Marks On Teeth And Low Gums While Using Retainers?
I have a permanent retainer on my bottom teeth about 5 months ago the back of my teeth on the gum line broke off due to plaque build up. my gums have always been low but now they are extremely low! and my teeth have black marks in the back of them. am I going to lose my teeth? how can fix this or can I
Thu, 25 Jun 2015
Hi Dear,
Welcome to HCM.
Understanding your concern.
As per your query black marks on teeth and low gums while using retainers is because of accumulation of debris and microorganisms in that area. Continuous accumulation leads to bacterial build up on your teeth and form hard substance known as calculus.
Calculus build up is very damaging to gum tissue and leads to periodontal disease, gum recession and ultimately tooth loss. Calculus build up is commonly seen fixed orthodontic retainers because they can be tricky to keep clean.
I would suggest you to maintain proper oral hygiene. Brush and floss twice daily. Use uni-tufted brush with bristles to access properly the area under retainers. Use advanced dental cleaning procedure and proxa brushes for better access.
Visit dentist once and go for scaling and cleaning in that area. If calculus accumulation is much go for curettage and root planning. Get retainer refixed with proper use of elastics and bands so as flexible movement is there and space will be there for proper cleaning.
Use antimicrobial mouth wash on daily basis.
Hope your concern has been resolved.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
Welcome to HCM.
Understanding your concern.
As per your query black marks on teeth and low gums while using retainers is because of accumulation of debris and microorganisms in that area. Continuous accumulation leads to bacterial build up on your teeth and form hard substance known as calculus.
Calculus build up is very damaging to gum tissue and leads to periodontal disease, gum recession and ultimately tooth loss. Calculus build up is commonly seen fixed orthodontic retainers because they can be tricky to keep clean.
I would suggest you to maintain proper oral hygiene. Brush and floss twice daily. Use uni-tufted brush with bristles to access properly the area under retainers. Use advanced dental cleaning procedure and proxa brushes for better access.
Visit dentist once and go for scaling and cleaning in that area. If calculus accumulation is much go for curettage and root planning. Get retainer refixed with proper use of elastics and bands so as flexible movement is there and space will be there for proper cleaning.
Use antimicrobial mouth wash on daily basis.
Hope your concern has been resolved.
Best Wishes,
Dr. Harry Maheshwari
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....