In April of this year I got my snap on smile. I noticed last month that it stinks. I am afraid that I am going to need a new one before long. My teeth are crooked and people have gotten used to seeing me with the snap on smile. It looks better than I expected because the dentist I got it from really did a great job with my impressions and making sure the smile fits right. It just stinks. I would go back to the dentist I got it from but I moved in July and am 4 hours away now. What can I do to get the odor out of my snap on smile? Julie
Julie – It’s good that you are asking about the condition of your Snap-On Smile. It isn’t normal for it to have a bad odor. Your description sounds like you wear the appliance all of the time. Did your dentist give you a special cleanser for soaking the appliance and removing bacterial from it? If so, soak the appliance in the solution for the time specified in the directions. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can be used on the appliance. Soak it for less than five minutes though, and be certain not to store your Snap-On Smile in vinegar, because it can cause the material to degrade.
Another option is to purchase denture cleanser. Other than the vinegar, which is natural, only use solutions that are specifically made to clean dental appliances.
Care for your Snap-On Smile daily. When you eat and drink anything, ensure that you take it out and thoroughly rinse it afterward. Floss your teeth daily and brush them twice a day. Clean teeth will prevent bacteria from depositing on the appliance and causing odor. If bacterial is left in the appliance, it can also promote tooth decay and cavities.
Keep in mind that daily use of the Snap-On Smile will cause it to wear quickly. It is designed for special occasions or for use when waiting for a smile makeover. Take good care of your natural teeth and your appliance.
If you continue to smell a bad odor in your appliance, schedule an appointment with a dentist who offers the Snap-On Smile. A dentist’s office has the equipment to disinfect the appliance for you.
This post is sponsored by Bedminster, NJ dentist Dr. Allyson Hurley.