Clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet and effective way to straighten teeth without the need for traditional braces. The most popular on the market are the Invisalign clear aligners. The best results will come from consistent and proper care. This article will inform you about the best practices for maintaining your aligners and keeping your teeth healthy.
How do you care for your clear aligners?
Regular care must be prioritized to ensure effectiveness and comfort during your treatment plan.
The following good practices will aid your overall oral care with clear aligners:
- Wear your aligners consistently.
Wearing your aligners 20 to 22 hours each day is recommended to ensure your treatment plan stays on schedule. If you do not wear your aligners per your dentist’s guidelines, you risk having the orthodontic treatment take longer.
- Remove your aligners when eating or drinking.
Always remove your aligners before eating to prevent staining and damage and before drinking to avoid discoloration. Food particles may easily get trapped between your teeth and aligners, leading to issues with overall oral health.
- Rinse your aligners every time you remove them.
Removing any saliva or debris that may have accumulated and keeping them freshly rinsed is imperative.
- Soak your aligners daily.
If you don’t want your aligners to look dingy, soak them in a cleaning solution daily. Use denture cleaners or products specifically designed for aligner cleaning. This will remove bacteria and keep your aligners clean. You may also use a solution of half water and half hydrogen peroxide for a minute to treat them.
How do you clean teeth aligners at home?
Do the following at home to keep them clean:
- Brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Keep a travel toothbrush with you and at home at all times to brush your aligners every time you remove them. Do not use toothpaste because it may be too abrasive and scratch the aligners.
- Avoid using hot water when cleaning your aligners. The best method is to use lukewarm water. This avoids accidentally warping the plastic, which can ultimately make them less effective.
- Ensure the removal of food particles after eating or drinking. This prevents bacteria from building up, keeping them odor-free and also avoiding a high risk of cavities and gum diseases.
What is the white stuff on my aligners?
The “white stuff” on your aligners should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent any long-term damage.
The “white stuff” on your aligners may be either plaque, tartar, or a tannin-based stain.
Plaque will appear if you lack oral hygiene. Plaque builds up from the bacteria around your teeth, especially if you wear aligners for 20 to 22 hours, as recommended. Plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Tartar can leave a white film on your aligners, making them look cloudy. To remove this, follow the advice above.
Tannin-based stains are yellowish-brown. Food and beverages (like coffee, tea, and red wine) may contain tannins and will contribute to the stains.
How many hours a day should I wear my aligners?
You should wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Adhere to your dentist’s advice for optimal treatment time. Clear aligners can cost around $3,000 to $5,000, so following your dentist’s recommendations will make your expense worth it.
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