Researchers in the CBRC’s oral health theme have found that insufficient cleaning could allow build-up of potentially pathogenic microbes on orthodontic retainers. Dr Jonathan Pratten and his team (Mr Dheaa Al Groosh, Ms Gilda Roudsari, Professor David Moles, Dr Derren Ready, and Mr Joseph Noar) examined the types of microorganisms that live on retainers and looked for bacteria not normally found in the oral cavity. They detected species of Candida and Staphylococcus on 66.7% and 50% of used retainers respectively, regardless of the retainer type. These microbes were also present on the interior cheeks and tongue of the retainer wearers. Candida and Staphylococcus rarely cause problems in healthy individuals but are potentially highly problematic in people with a compromised immune system. Dr Pratten says: “With the growing awareness the public has of hospital-acquired infections it is important to be aware of other potential ‘hidden reservoirs’ of harmful bacteria which could be introduced to environments where we know they can cause problems.” The research team is now working on the development of effective cleaning methods for orthodontic retainers, but advises that hand washing before and after handling a retainer is key to reducing the transmission of these bugs.
