Clear aligners have become a popular choice for teeth straightening, offering a more discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. However, to get the best results, there are certain things you should avoid after getting clear aligners. In this blog post, we will discuss the top 9 things to avoid and provide tips for maintaining your aligners to ensure a successful teeth straightening journey.
Eating and Drinking with Your Aligners In
- Remove your aligners before consuming anything other than water
- Eating with aligners in can cause damage, staining, and unpleasant odors
- Keep a case handy to store your aligners safely when you remove them
Smoking and Using Tobacco Products
- Staining and discoloration of aligners due to smoking
- Slower teeth straightening progress with tobacco use
- Compromised effectiveness of braces due to nicotine content
- Increased risk of gum problems and oral health issues
Ignoring Oral Hygiene
- Regular brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup
- Cleaning aligners thoroughly for freshness and bacteria prevention
- Scheduling regular dentist visits for checkups and cleanings
- Rinsing aligners with water every time they are removed
Skipping Aligner Wear Time
- Wearing aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours daily
- Consistent pressure required for effective tooth movement
- Establishing a routine to track aligner wear time
- Minimizing aligner removal to maintain treatment progress
Not Changing Aligners on Schedule
- Following the orthodontist's recommended aligner change schedule
- Delayed aligner changes leading to prolonged treatment
- Monitoring treatment progress and communicating with your orthodontist
- Understanding the importance of timely aligner transitions
Using Harsh Cleaning Agents
- Employing gentle cleaning methods for aligners
- Utilizing a soft toothbrush and mild soap for cleaning
- Avoiding toothpaste, bleach, or alcohol-based products on aligners
- Rinsing aligners thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue
Storing Aligners Improperly
- Using a protective case for aligners when not in use
- Preventing damage or loss by avoiding tissue or napkin storage
- Keeping your aligner case clean and sanitary
- Developing a routine for safe aligner storage during meals and activities
Exposing Aligners to High Temperatures
- Keeping aligners away from hot water during cleaning
- Storing aligners in cool, shaded areas to prevent warping
- Avoiding leaving aligners in hot environments, such as a car in the sun
- Being mindful of temperature changes and potential heat exposure
Biting Your Nails or Chewing on Objects
- Developing strategies to break nail-biting or object-chewing habits
- Using stress-relief tools or fidget devices to keep hands occupied
- Being mindful of your actions and surroundings to avoid potential damage
- Reminding yourself of the financial and treatment consequences of damaged aligners
Grinding or Clenching Your Teeth
- Identifying triggers that contribute to teeth grinding or clenching
- Practicing relaxation techniques to alleviate stress and tension
- Seeking professional help if necessary to address underlying issues
- Monitoring and communicating any concerns with your orthodontist regularly
Playing Contact Sports without a Mouthguard
- Investing in a high-quality, custom-fit mouthguard for sports
- Ensuring proper storage and cleaning of mouthguards to maintain hygiene
- Educating yourself on the importance of mouthguards in preventing dental injuries
- Prioritizing dental safety during physical activities and sports
Skipping Dental Appointments
- Scheduling dental appointments in advance to maintain a consistent routine
- Keeping a calendar or setting reminders for upcoming appointments
- Understanding the role of dental professionals in maintaining aligner treatment progress
- Communicating openly with your dental team about your concerns and treatment goals
Neglecting to Rinse Aligners
- Developing a habit of rinsing aligners immediately after removal
- Using cool water to rinse aligners to prevent warping from hot water
- Incorporating rinsing into your daily oral care routine
- Ensuring proper hygiene and cleanliness to maintain aligner effectiveness
Forgetting to Brush after Meals
- Setting reminders or alarms to brush teeth after meals
- Carrying a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste for on-the-go brushing
- Prioritizing oral hygiene during busy days and social events
- Developing strategies to maintain oral care habits during your aligner treatment
Conclusion
Avoiding these common pitfalls will help ensure a smooth and successful teeth straightening journey with your clear aligners. By following these tips and maintaining proper oral hygiene, you’ll be on your way to achieving the perfect smile you’ve always wanted.
FAQs
No, it's best to avoid drinking hot beverages with your clear aligners in, as high temperatures can warp and damage the aligners. Additionally, hot or dark-colored beverages can stain your aligners, affecting their appearance. Remove your aligners before consuming hot or staining beverages and rinse your mouth with water before reinserting them.
If you're prone to grinding or clenching your teeth, it's essential to discuss this with your orthodontist. They may recommend a night guard to protect your aligners and teeth while you sleep. Additionally, you can practice relaxation techniques or seek professional help to address the underlying causes of teeth grinding or clenching, reducing its impact on your aligner treatment.
- 123Dentist. What happens if you smoke while wearing braces? https://www.123dentist.com/what-happens-if-you-smoke-while-wearing-braces/
- The Brace Place Orthodontics. Smoking and how it affects your braces. https://www.thebraceplace.ca/blog/2018/03/27/smoking-and-how-it-affects-your-braces
- Harrelson, A., & Ghassemi, A. (2014). The top foods and drinks to avoid for optimal dental health. The Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society : official organ of the Louisiana State Medical Society, 166(6), 226–228. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4890707/
