I have had a fixed retainer with bonded metal wires for about 7 years now, and I was thinking, is it possible that some metals are leaching from the braces and possibly exposing me to heavy metals? Most permanent retainers are made of stainless steel, which is an alloy of atleast 10.5% chromium with varying degrees of nickel, iron, copper, and sometimes other metals. Also, stainless steel is rarely used in food storage, because being covered by food or moisture can cause it to corrode.
Is it possible that by having a fixed retainer bonded to my teeth at all times, I am always being poisoned with heavy metals?