Patient resource
Caring for your aligners.
Aligner success is a compliance game. The four habits below decide whether your treatment finishes on time, or doesn’t.
Daily routine
Four habits. Every day.
- Wear 22 hoursWear them about 22 hours a day. They come out to eat, to drink anything that is not water, and to brush. This is the part that decides whether aligner treatment works.
- Clean dailyGive them a gentle brush with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Hot water warps the plastic, and a warped tray does not track.
- Brush before reinsertingBrush and floss before they go back in. Anything left on your teeth gets sealed under the tray for the next few hours, and that is how people get cavities during aligner treatment.
- Store safelyWhen they are out, they go in the case. Aligners wrapped in a napkin get cleared off the table, and we replace more of them that way than any other.
Tips
Getting the best results.
Can I eat with my aligners in?
No. Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. Hot beverages can warp the aligners, and colored drinks can stain them.
How do I switch to a new set of aligners?
Switch to your next set of aligners as directed by your orthodontist, typically every 1–2 weeks. Switch at night so your teeth can adjust while you sleep. Keep your previous set as a backup.
What if my aligner cracks or breaks?
Call our office immediately. Depending on where you are in your treatment cycle, we may have you move to your next aligner or order a replacement. Don’t continue wearing a cracked aligner.
Why do my aligners smell?
Bacteria buildup. Clean your aligners twice daily with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. You can also soak them in a denture cleaner or retainer cleaning solution. Never use toothpaste, it can scratch the surface.
Lost an aligner? Cracked one? Call us today, not next week.