AITA for refusing to let my girlfriend keep her old mouth guard from braces because “it’s unhygienic”?

Welcome back, internet citizens, to another edition of "Am I The A**hole?" where we dive deep into the everyday dilemmas that somehow escalate into full-blown relationship crises. Today's story brings us a seemingly trivial object, yet one that has apparently caused a rift between a couple: an old mouthguard from braces. Yes, you read that right. The mundane can indeed become monumental.\nIt's astonishing how something so small can spark such a heated debate. Our original poster, let's call him "Hygiene Hero," is utterly baffled by his girlfriend's attachment to what he perceives as a biohazard. She, on the other hand, sees a relic of her past, a symbol of perseverance. Who's right, who's wrong, and is there even a right answer when sentimentality clashes with practicality? Let's find out.

"AITA for refusing to let my girlfriend keep her old mouth guard from braces because “it’s unhygienic”?"

This is one of those classic "difference in perspective" AITA scenarios. On one hand, the original poster's concern for hygiene is entirely valid. Old, used dental appliances, especially those made of porous plastic and stored improperly for years, can indeed harbor bacteria, dust, and general grime. His reaction of disgust and desire to discard what he perceives as a biohazard is a very natural and logical response from a practical standpoint.\nHowever, the girlfriend's emotional attachment, while perhaps puzzling to some, is also understandable. For many, objects like a retainer or a last set of braces can symbolize a significant period of their life, a personal achievement, or even a painful but ultimately rewarding journey. It's not about the object itself as a utilitarian item, but what it represents – a triumph over discomfort, a journey to self-improvement, and a marker of time.\nThe core of the conflict seems to be a disconnect in how value is assigned. The OP values cleanliness and practicality above all else in this instance, seeing only the physical state and potential hazards of the object. The girlfriend, conversely, places immense value on the sentimental and symbolic aspects, viewing the object as a tangible link to her personal history and struggles. Both viewpoints hold a degree of validity within their own frameworks.\nThe breakdown in communication occurred when the OP immediately jumped to discarding the item without fully acknowledging or validating his girlfriend's emotional connection first. While his suggestion of sterilization and display was a step in the right direction, it came after an initial dismissal of her feelings. It highlights the challenge of navigating shared living spaces when personal sentiment clashes with perceived universal standards of hygiene.

The Great Retainer Debate: Is it a Treasure or Trash?

The internet, predictably, is split right down the middle on this one! Many are siding with OP, echoing his sentiments about hygiene. "NTA, that's just gross!" and "Some things just need to go in the trash, memories or not" are common refrains. Users point out the potential for bacterial growth and the sheer unsightliness of a decades-old, used dental appliance as perfectly valid reasons for wanting it gone. They argue that sentimental value shouldn't override basic health considerations.\nOn the flip side, a significant portion of commenters are firmly in the girlfriend's corner, often exclaiming, "YTA, it's her memory!" They emphasize the importance of respecting sentimental items, even if they seem trivial to others. Many share stories of their own seemingly odd keepsakes, arguing that if it's not actively causing harm (like being worn), it should be her choice. The consensus among these users is that OP overstepped by trying to dictate what she can and cannot keep from her past.

So, what's the verdict on this mouthguard melodrama? It seems we have a classic case where practicality and sentimentality are locked in a battle. There's no clear NTA or YTA, as both parties have understandable, albeit clashing, perspectives. The best path forward would likely involve empathy, communication, and a willingness to compromise. Perhaps a thorough, professional sterilization followed by an airtight, decorative display case could be the unlikely hero in this quirky conflict. Ultimately, respecting each other's feelings, even when they seem baffling, is key to a healthy relationship.