Do’s & Don’ts of Cleaning ClearCorrect Aligners
Achieving that perfect smile is undoubtedly possible with ClearCorrect aligners. All you need to do is make sure you’re wearing each set as instructed and coming in for checkups with our Washington, MI, dentists. However, to ensure that your path to a flawless smile is smooth and effective, you need to maintain the cleanliness of your clear aligners or you risk unwanted oral hygiene developments.
If you’re wondering , here are our recommended methods (plus what not to do).
Why a Quick Rinse Won’t Cut It
When you wear ClearCorrect clear aligners, it can be tempting to run them under some water and call them “clean”. However, it’s not that simple. For one, that method does nothing to address the bacteria that may be accumulating on the aligners.
Our dentists recommend that instead of only rinsing your aligners, you thoroughly clean them with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This can be accomplished in just a few minutes and most teen and adult patients find it easiest to clean their aligners at the same time they are brushing their teeth.
Keep your aligners stain and bacteria-free by:
- Quickly rinsing them under lukewarm water after they are removed from your mouth.
- Using your soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of clear antibacterial soap to get rid of any food bits that may have stuck around from an earlier meal.
- Carefully brushing the inside and outside of the top and bottom aligner.
- Giving them another rinse after you’re done brushing.
- Placing back in your mouth or inside their protective case when not in use.
Want to use toothpaste instead of clear soap? As long as toothpaste is non-abrasive and gentle, it is fine to use for cleaning clear aligners. Do not use whitening or any harsh toothpaste on your aligners to avoid damaging them.
Clear Aligner Cleaning Mistakes to Steer Clear Of
Aside from watching what toothpaste you use to clean your aligners, it’s important that you also refrain from ever washing them in hot water. If you do, you risk warping the plastic and ruining the set you’re cleaning.
It’s best if you use lukewarm water that isn’t too hot or cold as it will get the job done without being harmful. For times when you’d rather let your aligners soak, choose an approved cleaning solution. Never use mouthwash as alcohol within the mixture can distort your aligners and the colored dye can cause discoloration.
Different soaking solutions we recommend include:
- Small amount of gentle liquid soap + a cup of water
- One part vinegar + 3 parts warm water
- Tbsp. of baking soda + ½ cup water
- Denture cleanser
Additional Ways to Prioritize a Clean Smile
Aside from the tips listed above, regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings play a vital role in removing plaque and tartar buildup. It’s at these visits that our dentists can monitor your oral health closely and address any issues promptly, ensuring they don’t negatively impact your clear aligner treatment.
Moreover, our team can offer specialized advice and cleaning techniques tailored to your unique needs, complementing your at-home aligner maintenance routine. The way you handle and remove your aligners can also significantly affect their longevity and effectiveness.
Always use gentle force and the recommended technique for removing your aligners; typically, this involves carefully lifting the aligners from the back molars on one side and gradually working your way to the front and then to the other side. Avoid pulling on them too hard or too quickly, as this can cause them to crack or break.
Pro Tip → We recommend using like the Pultool, Outie, and OrthoKey if you don’t want to use your hands.
Furthermore, when handling your aligners, ensure your hands are clean to prevent the transfer of bacteria and particles that can cloud the aligners or introduce bacteria into your mouth. Also, avoid placing your aligners on unclean surfaces that might contaminate them. By following these techniques and handling your aligners with care, you can maintain their integrity and ensure they function as intended throughout your treatment.
Give Our Office a Call
Whether you’re a new wearer or are looking to refine your cleaning routine, our , are here to arm you with the knowledge and tips to keep your aligners—and your smile—sparkling clean and clear. Call Romeo Family Dentistry today at (586) 752-3589 to request an appointment.