Things You Can Do to Take Care of Your Aligners

Clear Aligner Therapy such as Invisalign or ClearCorrect is a favored orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth gradually. If you’re undergoing clear aligner treatment in New Westminster, it’s important to take proper care of your aligners to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. You can maintain your aligners in optimal condition by following a few simple guidelines and incorporating good oral hygiene practices. This article will discuss essential tips and habits to help you take care of your Invisalign or ClearCorrect aligners effectively.

1. Remove Aligners Properly:

It’s important to know how to remove your Invisalign or ClearCorrect aligners carefully to avoid causing damage or warping them. Follow these steps to safely remove your aligners:

• Start from the back of your mouth, gently gripping one side of the aligner with your fingertips.
• Gradually work your way forward, applying gentle pressure until the aligner releases from the teeth.
• Repeat the process on the other side, ensuring even pressure to prevent unnecessary bending or distortion.

2. Clean Your Aligners Regularly:

Keeping your aligners clean is crucial for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing bacteria or plaque buildup. Follow these tips for proper cleaning:

• Rinse the aligners with lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris every time you remove them.
• Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to softly brush the aligners with a mild, clear antibacterial soap or cleaning crystals. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be rough and scratch the aligners.
• Rinse the aligners thoroughly with water before placing them back in your mouth.
• Avoid using hot water or abrasive chemicals, which can damage the aligners.

3. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:

Maintaining superb oral hygiene is essential during Invisalign treatment to avert tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Follow these oral hygiene practices:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after each meal, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to clean between the teeth and eliminate plaque and food particles that can become trapped between the aligners and teeth.
• Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
• Clean your aligners before securing them back in your mouth to prevent transferring bacteria or plaque.

4. Avoid Eating or Drinking While Wearing Aligners:

It’s important to remove them before eating or drinking (except for plain water) to prevent staining, damage, or warping of your Invisalign aligners.

Consuming food or beverages while wearing aligners can lead to discoloration and increase the risk of trapped food particles or sugar interacting with the aligners and causing cavities. Always remove your aligners before enjoying meals or beverages, and ensure you clean your teeth and aligners thoroughly before reinserting them.

5. Store Aligners Properly:

When you’re not wearing your Invisalign or ClearCorrect aligners, storing them properly is essential to prevent loss, damage, or exposure to harmful bacteria. Follow these guidelines for storing your aligners:

• Use the case provided by your dentist or a dedicated aligner case to protect your aligners when not in use.
• Avoid placing the aligners in tissue, napkins, or other disposable materials, as they can easily be misplaced or thrown away.
• Keep the case with you at all times, whether at home, work, or when traveling, to ensure you have a safe place to store your aligners.

6. Attend Regular Check-ups:

During your orthodontic treatment, it is important to attend regular check-up appointments with your dentist in New Westminster or a dental clinic near you. These appointments permit your dentist to monitor your progress, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure your treatment is on track. Your dentist can also provide additional guidance on proper aligner care and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

7. Be Consistent with Aligner Wear:

It’s crucial to wear your aligners as prescribed by your dentist to achieve optimal results with your Invisalign treatment. Consistency is key, and aligners should be worn for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Only remove them when eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing. Failure to wear the aligners as instructed can prolong your treatment time and compromise the desired outcome.

8. Communicate with Your Dentist:

If you experience any discomfort, concerns, or questions during your Invisalign or ClearCorrect treatment, you must communicate with your dentist in New Westminster or a dental professional at your dental clinic. They can address any issues promptly and provide necessary guidance or adjustments to ensure your treatment progresses smoothly.

Conclusion:

Taking care of your Invisalign or ClearCorrect aligners is essential for achieving successful treatment outcomes and maintaining good oral health. By following these tips and guidelines, such as properly removing and cleaning your aligners, maintaining good oral hygiene, storing them correctly, attending regular check-ups, and being consistent with aligner wear, you can ensure your clear aligner treatment progresses effectively. Remember to consult your dentist in New Westminster or a dental clinic near you for personalized care instructions and support throughout your orthodontic journey. With proper care and adherence to your treatment plan, you can enjoy a beautiful, straight smile and improved oral health.