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Factors That Affect The Length Of Your Aligner Treatment
Let’s face it, cleaning clear aligners can be about as exciting as watching paint dry. However, it’s an important task that needs to be done if you want your aligners to stay in tip-top shape. So, if you’re ready for a wild and thrilling adventure, grab your toothbrush, and let’s get into the do’s and don’ts of how to clean aligners regularly:
THE 'DO'S' OF HOW TO CLEAN ALIGNERS
Flossing And Brushing: The Boring But Necessary Step Before Putting Your Aligners Back In
Brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in. We know, we know, it’s a total snooze-fest, but it’s an essential dental cleaning routine to remove any plaque or food particles that may have accumulated while the aligners were out. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall dental health, preventing plaque buildup, stains, and unpleasant odors associated with aligners.
Scrub-A-Dub-Dub: Cleaning Your Aligners Like a Pro
Clean your aligners using the basic cleaning method - with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive soap or denture cleaners such as cleaning crystals. Avoid using baking soda as its abrasive nature can scratch aligners. Now, this is where things start to get interesting. You get to scrub away all the gunk and grime building up on your invisible aligners. It’s like a weirdly satisfying mini-workout for your hands!
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Soaking Your Aligners In Cleaning Solution
Soak your aligners in a solution of removable aligner cleaner or denture tablets and water. Specialised cleaning tablets containing sodium carbonate can enhance the cleaning process. Doing so will help free them of bacteria and other yucky stuff that can build up over time. You can use warm water if you don’t have either option.
The Cleanliness Inspection: Will Your Aligners Pass the Test?
The final step of the cleaning process and the moment of truth: Rinse your aligners thoroughly with water and inspect your work before putting them back in. If there's excess plaque, food particles, or soap residue, grab the toothbrush and get scrubbing again for more extensive cleaning measures.
THE 'DON'TS' OF CLEANING ALIGNERS
Lukewarm Water for the Win: Why Hot Water is a No-Go for Cleaning Aligners
Ensure you follow the basic cleansing process of rinsing your aligners with cold or lukewarm water to prevent warping and damage. Hot water breaks down the plastic and could cause damage, warping, or discolouration.
Bleach, Alcohol, and Vinegar: The Trifecta of Clear Aligners Destruction
We can’t stress this enough: do not use bleach, abrasive cleaning agents, or any type of whitening product on your aligners. These cleaning products can damage the plastic and weaken its structure, leading to a shorter lifespan for your aligners and a longer treatment time - and nobody wants that.
Say No To Scalding Hot Drinks
Oh sure, why not add a little bit of pain and damage to your morning routine? Go ahead and enjoy that steaming hot cup of tea or coffee with your aligners in. Who needs properly functioning aligners or a pain-free mouth, right? But if you're sane and want to keep your aligners in good shape and your mouth healthy, we suggest taking them out before indulging in your morning brew.
Aligners Vs. Toothpaste: A Battle You Don't Want to Win
Why settle for boring, clean aligners when you can use toothpaste to give them that rugged, “I’ve been through a war” look? Go ahead and scrub those aligners with toothpaste because who needs clear aligners anyway? But if you want to keep your aligners in tip-top shape and looking their best, we suggest steering clear of toothpaste because they’re not denture cleaners.
Traveling with Your Clear Aligners
Use a Travel Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Travelling with your clear aligners doesn’t have to be a hassle. With a trusty travel toothbrush and toothpaste you can keep your aligners clean and hygienic no matter where you are. Look for a toothbrush with soft bristles and a toothpaste specifically designed for clear aligners. When it’s time to brush, be gentle and avoid using too much pressure to prevent any damage. With these travel essentials, you can maintain your cleaning routine on the go and keep your aligners in tip-top shape, no matter where your adventures take you.
LET’S GET IT STRAIGHT (get it?)
You can keep your aligners clean and in top condition by following these regular cleaning do's and don'ts. And at Bitesoft Co, we are committed to providing you with the best orthodontic treatment and aligners, so you can achieve the smile you've always wanted.
Remember to clean your aligners as directed by your orthodontist, and if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Happy cleaning (and try to enjoy it a little; we promise it's not that bad)!