Many of our patients choose clear aligner therapy over traditional orthodontics. It’s simple, discreet, and you can still eat all of your favorite foods while straightening your smile. Maintaining your orthodontic trays is one of the most important aspects of care. Here, our team at Magic Smiles offers recommendations on how to clean clear aligners so your mouth can stay fresh while you’re undergoing treatment.

The dentists at our surgery offer clear aligner therapy to qualifying patients of all ages. We serve individuals and families in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour.

Every time you remove your aligners, rinse them off under lukewarm water. This helps to remove food particles, saliva, and bacteria from the trays and reduce odor. Never use hot water to rinse your aligners, as the heat can actually make them warp.

Bacteria can build up on the trays during wear. You should take your aligners out and brush them at least twice a day – typically when you wake up in the morning and before you go to bed at night.

While you’ll brush your teeth with toothpaste, you should never use toothpaste to clean your aligners, as it can actually scratch the plastic. Instead, use clear antibacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help reduce bacteria and keep your mouth healthy. Never use soaps with dyes, as they can discolor the aligners.

In addition to brushing your aligners, you should also soak them once a day. Try to do this during mealtime to minimize the length of time the trays are not worn.

There are cleaners available made specifically for soaking aligners. You can also soak them in vinegar and water. Once complete, brush away any debris, rinse the trays thoroughly, then place them back in your mouth.

Whenever you clean your trays, be sure to brush and floss your teeth as well. If your teeth aren’t clean when you put your trays back in your mouth, food and bacteria can become trapped and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.

We recommend brushing after every meal and flossing between the teeth at least once every day. You can also use an antibacterial mouthwash that will help reduce harmful microbe levels.

Aligner trays must be worn at least 22 hours every day to be effective. However, you must still remove them when you’re eating or drinking. Any time they are not in your mouth or soaking, they should be kept in a protective case. Leaving them out in the open can increase the risk for bacterial buildup. You should never carry your trays loose in your pockets or handbag; they can warp easily. Similarly, avoid leaving them in a hot car. Always store your aligners in a cool, safe place.

The only thing you should ever drink while your aligners are in place is water. Any other type of food or beverage can damage or stain your aligners. These trays are not made to withstand the pressures of chewing.