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 your aligners at least 22 hours per day. Remove them only to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss.
- Clean dailyBrush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water. Never use hot water, it can warp the plastic.
- Brush before reinsertingAlways brush and floss before putting your aligners back in. Trapping food and bacteria under aligners can cause cavities.
- Store safelyWhen not wearing them, store your aligners in your case. Never wrap them in a napkin, they get thrown away that way.
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.