How can I take care of my clear aligners?

If you are undergoing your orthodontic treatment with clear aligners, it is important to make sure that you are following your care instructions strictly. It helps to keep the aligners clean and in shape. 

Provided below are tips that aid in keeping the aligners clean.

Clean your Aligners Regularly

If you’re wearing clear aligners, you should clean them every time you brush your teeth. The aligners should be brushed with warm water and toothpaste. You should also soak them in denture cleaner on a weekly basis.

Keep your Teeth, Gums, and Mouth Healthy

Your clear aligners are removable, so it’s important to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy while wearing them. Brush your teeth thoroughly before you insert or remove your aligners. After brushing, rinse your mouth with a prescribed mouthwash. This will keep your mouth healthy and clean, and will help your aligners stay in place.

Avoid Foods that may Damage your Aligners

Your clear aligners are specially made for you, so you should avoid chewing on hard foods, like ice or hard candy. We also recommend that you avoid eating sticky foods, like caramels or chewing gum. These can stick to your aligners and break them, which will require you to get a replacement.

Any food that can stain your teeth can also stain your aligners. This includes coffee, tea, red wine, and tomato sauce. If you do accidentally stain your aligners, remove them and soak them in warm water. Then brush them with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

See your Dentist for Regular Checkups

After you get clear aligners, you’ll still need to get regular checkups with your dentist.

Have a Backup Plan in Case of an Emergency

We understand that accidents happen and your clear aligners may become damaged. Whether it is due to a sports injury, playing outside, or dropping your aligners off a counter, you should plan ahead.

Your clear aligners are an investment and we want to help you protect your investment. They are made to last between 2 and 3 years with proper care. However, if your clear aligners break or crack, please contact our office. We may be able to repair or replace your clear aligners.


A Better Smile Dentistry, located in Albuquerque, NM is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies that enable the best dnetal care services for the patients. Call us at (505) 208-0505 and schedule an appointment with the dentist.