Keeping your clear aligners clean is essential for your oral health and keeping them, well, clear! Nobody wants cloudy, smelly aligners that defeat the purpose of discreet teeth straightening.
Clear Aligner Daily Cleaning Routine
Cleaning clear aligners in Huntsville is straightforward and doesn't require fancy equipment. Here's your daily routine:
- Rinse immediately — Every time you remove your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water. This step helps prevent plaque and saliva from drying on the plastic.
- Gentle brushing — Brush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap or a small amount of clear dish soap.
- Skip the toothpaste — Avoid using toothpaste, which is too abrasive and can create tiny scratches that make your aligners look cloudy.
- Rinse thoroughly — Always rinse well before putting them back in your mouth.
Important: Never use hot water, as it can warp the aligners and ruin their fit.
Deep Cleaning Options
For a deeper clean once a day, you have several options:
- Soak in denture cleaner or a specialized aligner cleaning solution
- Use a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar for a 15-minute soak
- Always rinse thoroughly after soaking to remove any residue or taste
Don't Forget Your Teeth
Here's an important tip: Always brush and floss your teeth before you put the aligners back in. Trapping food particles and bacteria against your teeth for 22 hours a day is asking for cavities and bad breath.
Dr. Booth and his team will provide detailed care instructions when you start your clear aligner treatment. They are always available to answer questions about keeping your aligners fresh and effective throughout treatment.
Ready to straighten your smile discreetly? Contact Doug Booth, D.D.S., today to learn more about clear aligners in Huntsville.