Clear Aligner Post-Op Care
Yay! You are getting clear aligners to beautify your smile! Throughout the course of treatment we will keep you well informed as to what you can expect to feel with your appliances and provide you with specific care instructions. Always feel free to ask any questions. The doctors will readily address all of your concerns.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
Every orthodontic patient will experience a period of adjustment when appliances are initially placed. The first few days of wearing clear aligners typically take the most getting used to and are the most challenging. During this time you may feel a general soreness in your mouth and your teeth may be tender to biting pressures for a few days. It may also take a week or two for the lips, cheek, and tongue to get accustomed to the appliances. It is important that you keep in mind that these sensations will pass. To help you cope with this initial short-term discomfort your dentist will recommend a number of remedies and tips. These techniques can also be utilized during any brief “achy” episodes that may follow a future adjustment visit.
Daily Care
Clean Your Aligners Regularly:
● Morning and Evening: Clean your aligners every morning and evening when you brush your teeth. This helps to remove plaque and bacteria.
● Rinse: Always rinse your aligners with lukewarm water before putting them back in your mouth.
● Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, antibacterial soap or a specialized aligner cleaner to gently brush your aligners. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and may scratch the plastic.
Avoid Eating or Drinking with Aligners In:
● Remove for Meals: Always remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. Food and colored beverages can stain or damage your aligners.
● Rinse After Meals: After eating, brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. If brushing isn’t possible, at least rinse your mouth and the aligners with water.
Proper Storage:
● Use the Case: When not wearing your aligners, always store them in their case to prevent loss or damage. Avoid wrapping them in napkins, as they can easily be thrown away by mistake.
● Keep Away from Heat: Never leave your aligners in hot places (like a car or direct sunlight), as heat can warp the plastic.
Weekly/Monthly Care:
Deep Cleaning:
● Soak in Cleaning Solution: Once a week, soak your aligners in a denture cleaner, retainer cleaner, or a mixture of water and clear aligner cleaning crystals to give them a deep clean. This can be purchased at our dentalstore: Visit our website, find the store tab and search for aligner cleaner. Consider purchasing a sonic cleaner as well.
● Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Do not use bleach, alcohol, or any other harsh chemicals, as they can damage or discolor your aligners.
Check for Damage:
● Inspect Aligners: Regularly check your aligners for cracks or damage. If you notice any issues, please let us know. These trays are 1 or 2 week wear schedules and oftentimes you can switch to the next one after 5-7 days so coming in may not be needed.
General Tips:
Wear as Directed:
● Follow the Schedule: Wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day to ensure effective treatment.
● Follow the Switching Schedule: Change your aligners according to the schedule provided by your orthodontist.
Avoid Staining:
● No Smoking: Avoid smoking while wearing your aligners, as it can stain them.
● Avoid Colored Beverages: Do not drink coffee, tea, soda, or any other colored beverages while wearing your aligners.
Handle with Clean Hands:
● Wash Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your aligners to avoid transferring bacteria or dirt to them.
BE PATIENT!
All treatment times that we have talked about are only estimates. Everyone is different, and everyone’s teeth move at different rates. There may be several refinements needed in order to fine tune and get the teeth in the proper position. Wearing your trays 23/24 hours a day is the most important thing that can be done to complete treatment as quickly as possible. Non-compliance will delay completion.
Achieving the best orthodontic outcome depends on teamwork. Remember, a healthy and beautiful smile that will last a lifetime is well worth the effort. By following these care instructions, you’ll keep your clear aligners in good condition, which will help ensure a successful and comfortable treatment process.
*Please bring your current aligner tray to all of your dental appointments so we can evaluate tooth movement.
If you have any other questions please reach out to our office.