My retainer makes my gums bleed

A retainer can make gums bleed when its edge rubs tissue, traps plaque, or no longer fits, but gum inflammation can also be involved.

Retainers may be plastic trays, Hawley appliances with acrylic and wire, or fixed wires bonded behind teeth. A rough edge, distortion, food debris, or pressure can injure the gum margin.

Clean a removable retainer with a soft brush and cool water, and do not bend wires, trim plastic, or force a painful appliance into place. Keep brushing around it.

Contact the orthodontic clinic if bleeding continues, the retainer is sharp, teeth shift, or it cannot seat. Facial swelling, fever, or severe pain needs urgent help.

Ask whether the appliance needs polishing, repair, replacement, or adjustment, and whether plaque or tooth movement contributes.