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Ways to Maintain Clear Aligners
Secrets to Maintaining Your Clear Aligners
Do you want to improve your smile without the hassle of traditional braces? If so, clear aligners are a terrific option. Biltmore Dental Center is proud to be Phoenix’s preferred provider of clear aligners. These innovative dental solutions are discreet and will help you achieve the look you want and deserve. However, maintenance is critical while using them. This includes responsibilities to protect your dental appliances as well as the teeth they are straightening. But we don’t expect you to maintain clear aligners without assistance. Our team will offer recommendations throughout your teeth alignment journey to ensure the best results as quickly as possible. This blog will explore some of our top suggestions for maintaining your clear aligners, but we encourage you to call us with any questions you have.
Biltmore Dental Center Offers Clear Aligner Services
If you’re in Phoenix and considering clear aligners, Biltmore Dental Center is the place to go. We offer comprehensive care in a friendly environment to ensure our patients can achieve a smile that makes them proud. Clear aligners are among our most popular orthodontic treatment options. During a consultation, we will create an individualized plan for you. At this time, we will also explain the process, how long it takes, and what you can do to ensure success. That final element includes clear aligner maintenance, and we’ll help you along the way.
Why It’s Important to Maintain Your Clear Aligners
Maintaining your clear aligners is crucial for several reasons. First, it keeps them clear and invisible, which is one of their main appeals relative to traditional braces. If your aligners become dirty or cloudy, they will also be noticeable to those around you. But equally as important, properly maintained aligners are more effective. Residue or plaque buildup in your aligner trays will alter their fit and hinder teeth movement. Finally, you want to maintain your clear aligners for oral health purposes. Keeping them clean will minimize or eliminate bacteria that can cause bad breath or infections.
Best Ways to Maintain Your Clear Aligners
Fortunately, clear aligner maintenance doesn’t require significant effort. The most important element is consistency. So, while maintaining your clear aligners, regularly do the following:
- Rinse Your Clear Aligners – Before putting clear aligners in your mouth, rinse them with lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris. Avoid using hot water because it can warp the plastic.
- Brush Your Aligners Gently – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented antibacterial soap to clean your aligners. Do not use toothpaste because it can be abrasive. Make sure to brush the inside of your aligners to remove plaque or food particles and the outside to keep them looking clean. It is best to brush your aligners twice a day, morning and night.
- Soak in a Cleaning Solution – When not in use, soak your aligners in a specialized aligner cleaning solution to remove stains and bacteria. It is usually best to soak them for 15-30 minutes before rinsing in lukewarm water but follow your product’s instructions.
- Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks – Certain foods and drinks will stain your aligners. These include coffee, wine, and certain fruits. Whenever possible, remove your aligners before consuming these items to keep them clean and clear.
- Store Aligners Properly – Store your aligners in their case when you aren’t wearing them. This will help protect them from harmful bacteria or contaminants in the air or on paper napkins. Additionally, it will reduce your risk of losing them.
- Drink Plenty of Water – Stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking water. This will prevent your aligners from drying out or becoming brittle.
- Follow Our Instructions – Handle your clear aligners carefully to avoid damage and ensure they work as they should.
- Visit Biltmore Dental Center for Check-Ups – We will periodically schedule check-ups to ensure your alignment is progressing as planned. Be sure not to miss them.
Visit Biltmore Dental Center for Clear Aligner Tips Today
Clear aligners are among the top recent innovations in orthodontics. Our patients love them because they effectively achieve beautiful smiles without the clunkiness of metal braces and wires. Biltmore Dental Center is proud to provide clear aligner services, and we are committed to making your alignment process as smooth as possible. We’ll help you throughout your journey, so contact us today to get started.