Proper care of your clear aligners is essential to ensure your Smilelign treatment is both effective and hygienic. Without appropriate hygiene practices, aligners can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to bad breath, oral health issues such as gum disease, and even damage to the aligners themselves.
By understanding how to properly clean, handle, and store your clear aligners, you can make your treatment experience as smooth as possible and achieve the best possible results.
How to clean your clear aligners
Clear aligners (or clear braces) are in constant contact with your teeth and gums, making them susceptible to bacteria and plaque build-up. Effective daily cleaning plays a key role in ensuring that your aligners remain hygienic throughout your treatment.
Rinsing aligners: Rinse your aligners under lukewarm water each time you take them out for brushing, flossing, or eating. This simple step removes saliva and any loose particles, reducing the risk of odour and discolouration.
Daily cleaning: You should clean your aligners once a day with a soft-bristled tooth brush and a clear, non-abrasive soap. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too harsh and may scratch the aligners. Consider using a specialised cleaning spray, such as Puradent dental appliance cleaning spray.
Disinfecting: In addition to daily cleaning, it’s important to disinfect your aligners twice a week to remove harmful bacteria. Use disinfectant tablets, such as Dentipur or Nitradine, twice a week to thoroughly remove harmful bacteria from your clear aligners.
Be sure to avoid using hot water as this can distort the shape of your aligners, affecting both their fit and effectiveness.
When to remove your clear aligners
Your Smilelign clear aligners should be worn for no less than 22 hours per day. Remove your aligners before eating to prevent them from becoming damaged or stained. Food particles trapped in the aligners can cause bacteria build-up, leading to oral health issues.
They should also be removed when drinking hot beverages, as these can warp your aligners, resulting in an improper fit. It’s best to stick to plain, cold water when wearing them.
Finally, removing your aligners to brush and floss your teeth ensures that you can maintain good oral hygiene and prevent plaque build-up.
Proper storage of your clear aligners
Storing your aligners correctly is just as important as cleaning and wearing them correctly. When you’re not wearing your aligners, always store them in their container. This prevents them from getting lost or broken, as well as protecting them from bacteria, dust, and other contaminants. Aligners that are left out or placed in random locations are more likely to be stepped on, chewed by pets, or crushed in bags or pockets. Avoid wrapping your aligners in tissues or napkins, as they can easily be misplaced or thrown away.
Invest in your smile
The time and effort you invest in caring for your aligners will pay off with a smoother treatment experience. By following the recommended cleaning, handling, and storage tips, you ensure that your aligners remain hygienic and effective throughout the course of your treatment.
If you haven’t started your Smilelign journey yet, find your nearest Smilelign provider and contact them today to take the first step towards a confident, healthy smile!
