A smiling man holds a clear aligner.

How To Clean Your Clear Aligners

September 1, 2021 4:11 am

At Meason Orthodontics, we offer both Invisalign® and in-house clear aligners! As an alternative to braces, aligners come with many benefits. They are virtually invisible, comfortable, and removable! Here are several things to keep in mind when caring for your aligners.

Carefully Store Your Aligners

When you remove your aligners for eating or brushing, you don’t want to leave them out in the open. Bacteria and germs can accumulate on the aligners if they’re just sitting out. Every time you remove your aligners, you should at least rinse the aligners well with lukewarm (not hot) water. Store the aligners in a tray so you don’t accidentally throw them away. Because they are clear, it’s easy to lose them if they aren’t stored properly.

Brush Your Teeth Before Replacing Your Aligners

After eating, you should floss and brush your teeth before returning your aligners to your mouth. Why? If you still have food particles in your mouth, your aligners will squish them against your teeth. The particles will also build up in the aligners themselves, attracting bacteria. Maintaining good oral hygiene is especially important while wearing clear aligners.

Brush Daily

In a perfect world, you would brush your aligners every time you take them out, but we understand that life happens. You should commit to brushing them well at least once a day. Toothpaste is too abrasive for your aligners. We recommend using mild soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Soak Daily

If you want to be sure your aligners are really clean and free from bacteria, you can disinfect them by soaking them. Plain water won’t cut it, so use a denture cleanser or Invisalign’s cleaning crystals. They’ll be disinfected after 15-30 minutes. Be sure to rinse the aligners well before putting them back in your mouth.

Clear Aligners in Weatherford, TX

If you’ve always wanted a straighter smile, clear aligners could be the answer! They work best for mild to moderate alignment issues. At your consultation, Dr. Meason will determine if you’re a good candidate and answer any questions. Clear aligners are a great solution for adults who want to straighten their teeth. They work especially well for patients who had braces as teenagers but whose teeth have since shifted. Some adults have always wanted to straighten their teeth but feel like they are too old for metal braces. Problem solved with discreet clear aligners! If you have questions or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!

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