Caring for Your Clear Aligners: Tips for Success from Your Moberly Orthodontist

Expert Tips from Your Local Cosmetic Dentist and Orthodontist Near Me

Clear aligners are a convenient and discreet way to straighten your teeth, but just like your smile, they need a little care to stay clean, clear, and effective. At Moberly Family Dentistry, your trusted cosmetic dentist and orthodontist near me, we want to make sure you get the most out of your clear aligners. That starts with knowing how to properly care for your aligners every step of the way.

Here are our top tips to keep your aligners, and your smile, in great shape.

1. Clean Your Aligners Daily

Just like your teeth, your clear aligners need daily cleaning. Rinse them each time you remove them, and give them a gentle brushing at least once a day with a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap.

Avoid using toothpaste on your aligners. It can be too abrasive and may cause scratching or cloudiness.

2. Soak Them Regularly

To keep your aligners fresh and odor-free, soak them in an aligner cleaning solution or a mixture of water and clear antibacterial soap once a day. You can also use special cleaning crystals or tablets made specifically for clear aligners.

Be sure to rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in your mouth.

3. Always Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking

Clear aligners are not designed to handle the pressure or staining from food and beverages. Always remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water.

Eating with your aligners in can lead to:

• Cracking or warping
  
• Staining or discoloration
  
• Increased risk of bacteria buildup
  

Make it a habit to store your aligners safely in their case any time they’re out of your mouth.

4. Brush and Floss Before Putting Them Back In

After meals or snacks, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. This helps prevent food particles and bacteria from getting trapped between your teeth and aligners, reducing the risk of decay and bad breath.

If brushing isn’t possible right away, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water as a temporary measure.

5. Stick to the 20–22 Hour Rule

For your treatment to stay on track, you should wear your clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day. That means keeping them in during work, school, and even while you sleep and only removing them when necessary.

Consistency is key to seeing steady progress and completing your treatment on time.

6. Use the Right Tools for Removal

Avoid using sharp objects or fingernails to remove your aligners. Instead, use clean hands or a removal tool made specifically for clear aligners. This helps protect the aligner’s shape and prevents damage.

7. Keep a Backup Set on Hand

If you’re moving on to a new set soon, hold on to your previous aligners just in case. If you lose or break your current set, having a backup can help maintain your progress while a replacement is being made.

Support Every Step of the Way

At Moberly Family Dentistry, your local orthodontist near me and cosmetic dentist, we’re here to support your clear aligner journey from your very first scan to your final results. Proper care not only keeps your aligners in great condition—it also helps protect your oral health and ensures your treatment stays on schedule.

If you ever have questions or concerns about how to care for your aligners, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.

Ready to Get Started?

Thinking about clear aligners? Already started your journey and want expert guidance from a trusted cosmetic dentist or orthodontist near me? Schedule a consultation at Moberly Family Dentistry today. We’re here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile and enjoy the process along the way.

Schedule today!