Caring for your clear aligners

Perhaps you’ve avoided orthodontic treatment, because you don’t want to wear traditional braces. There are now discrete ways to straighten your teeth using clear aligners.

Clear aligners are nearly invisible plastic shells that snap over your teeth. As you wear them, they apply gentle pressure on your teeth to gradually reposition them. This is typically a solution if you have mild to moderate orthodontic problems.

Not everyone is a candidate for clear aligners. An orthodontist will evaluate your specific case, looking at your bite and how complex the treatment will be. You also need to be very compliant. It is advised to wear the clear aligners for 22 hours a day; this means you only remove them to eat and completing your oral hygiene routines. The amount of treatment time and number of aligners varies based on your specific case. The orthodontist will determine the best treatment option for you.

There is a series of aligners that fits your mouth. Typically, each aligner is worn for 1 week at a time and moves teeth a fraction of a millimeter at a time. It is very important to clean both your teeth and the clear aligners.

Tips for cleaning your teeth:

• Having clean teeth before putting your clear aligners in will help you reduce the amount of gum disease and cavity causing bacteria in your mouth, as well as keep your aligners cleaner.
• Brush teeth for 2 minutes twice a day and clean between your teeth daily.
• Rinse with water before putting aligners back in your mouth.

Tips for cleaning your removable clear aligners:

• Thoroughly clean your aligners every night.
• Use a mild soap and water. Brush with a toothbrush.
• Rinse your aligners with water every time you take them out and before putting them back in your mouth.
• Avoid abrasive brushes and pastes. Never boil or put your aligner in the dishwasher.
• Every brand of removable clear aligners are different, so ask your dental professional for any specific recommendations.
• Limit frequent snacking or sipping on beverages besides water.
• If you feel any rough areas from the aligner, notify your dental professional.

Read More:

Clear Aligners | American Association of Orthodontists (aaoinfo.org)