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Clear aligners are the new fad, and they make it possible to straighten one's teeth without having to wear the big, ugly metal brackets and wires. On the other hand, clear aligners do require special care to maintain good oral hygiene and keep your smile and aligners in tip-top shape. This blog will give you some really helpful hints to help you keep your teeth and aligners clean, so you to get the most out of your treatment and a smile that you will be proud of.
Why Oral Hygiene Matters with Clear Aligners
Wearing clear aligners means your teeth are covered for most of the day. If they are not taken care of then food particles and plaque will accumulate and tooth decay, gum disease, and halitosis will likely occur. To avoid these issues, it’s crucial to follow a rigorous oral hygiene routine while undergoing treatment.
Essential Oral Hygiene Tips for Clear Aligner Wearers
Brush After Every Meal
Remove your aligners before eating, and brush your teeth thoroughly afterward. This will also help take food out and keep the bacteria from building up on your teeth and aligners. A soft-bristle toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste are best for this purpose.
Rinse Aligners Regularly
Always rinse your aligners under cool water whenever you take them out to wash away saliva and plaque. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic. For a deeper clean, soak your aligners in a gentle aligner cleaner, such as those recommended by SmilePath, at least once a day.
Floss Daily
It's the flossing that removes all the food particles and plaque that the toothbrush can't get. Floss your teeth at least once a day, especially every night before bedtime with floss picks or a water flosser, as it is 100 times easier and more effective.
Avoid Sugary and Staining Foods
Sugary items such as candy cause plaque buildup and more likelihood of cavities. Avoid sweets, soda coffee, red wine, berries, or any other food or drink that will stain your teeth and aligners.
Clean Your Aligners Properly
Use a mild soap or cleaners made especially for aligners. Make sure to clean them as directed by your clear aligner company, Smilepath for example, to keep them nice, clear, and odorless.
Conclusion
Maintaining dental health with clear aligners is no easy task and it takes a lot of work and consistency. These hints will ensure that your mouth and teeth stay clean while keeping aligners intact. Remember, a clean mouth results in a confident, beautiful smile.
If you're thinking of clear aligners SmilePath has them at a low cost and they are made to fit into your lifestyle. Take the first step toward a healthier smile with SmilePath’s easy-to-use, at-home clear aligners and enjoy a brighter, healthier future.
FAQs
How often should I clean my clear aligners?
When you take your clear aligners out you, should always rinse and clean them really well at least once a day with a mild soap or an aligner cleaner.
Can I eat with my aligners on?
No, it's recommended to remove your aligners before eating. If one eats while wearing clear aligners, not only will they get damaged, but food will get trapped in the bottom grooves, and eventually lead to plaque build-up, and ultimately staining.
What is the best way to keep my teeth clean while wearing aligners?
Brush after every meal, floss every day, and clean your aligners regularly. If you follow these instructions, you will have perfect dental hygiene during your clear aligner therapy.