Patient Resources
Clear Aligner Care
Tips for getting the best results from your clear aligner treatment.
Daily Routine
Caring for Your Aligners
01
Wear 22 Hours
Wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day. Remove them only to eat, drink anything other than water, brush, and floss.
02
Clean Daily
Brush your aligners gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water. Never use hot water, which can warp the plastic.
03
Brush Before Reinserting
Always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. Trapping food and bacteria under aligners can cause cavities.
04
Store Safely
When not wearing your aligners, store them in your case. Never wrap them in a napkin as they can easily be thrown away.
Tips
Getting the Best Results
No. Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. Hot beverages can warp the aligners, and colored drinks can stain them.
Switch to your next set of aligners as directed by your orthodontist, typically every 1-2 weeks. Switch at night so your teeth can adjust while you sleep. Keep your previous set as a backup.
Call our office immediately. Depending on where you are in your treatment cycle, we may have you move to your next aligner or order a replacement. Do not continue wearing a cracked aligner.
Bacteria buildup causes odor. Clean your aligners twice daily with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. You can also soak them in a denture cleaner or retainer cleaning solution. Never use toothpaste as it can scratch the surface.