Patients who have clear aligners should avoid using toothpaste on them. There are a few reasons for that. The good news is there are other ways of keeping the aligners clean. Continue reading to learn more about keeping the mouth healthy during clear aligner treatment.
The dentist might suggest soaking the clean aligners in a retainer or denture cleaning solution. That comes in the form of a tablet, and it dissolves in a cup of water. The aligners can then soak in it, and that loosens the plaque and bacteria. The dentist might advise against using toothpaste.
The toothpaste is abrasive, and it can scratch the surface of the aligner. If a patient wants to brush the aligners, it is possible to use a clear soap instead. It is critical to use a soft toothbrush on them. Patients should rinse the aligners in cool water since hot water can change the shape of the devices.
It is also essential to avoid using mouthwash on the aligners. That includes using it while wearing the trays. The mouthwash might be harsh on the plastic because of the ingredients. Plus, many have dyes and other chemicals that can change the color of the trays. That means they will no longer be clear and look subtle in the mouth.
There are a few ways patients can keep the aligners clear and looking natural. However, one of the most critical ways is by only keeping up with the cleaning. The patient should brush the teeth before placing the aligners in the mouth. A dentist might recommend avoiding colored sodas, tea, coffee, or juice while wearing the trays. If a patient cannot brush after the meal, rinsing the moth is the minimum.
If there are stains, these might come from a lack of proper cleaning. Patients can take a small bowl or cup and use a solution of one-part hydrogen peroxide and one-part warm water. Then the trays can stay in the solution for several hours. That is the right solution if the trays are cloudy because of a lack of cleaning. Some baking soda on a toothbrush can remove other buildups and stains, but patients should be careful. It is abrasive and could cause scratches on the surface.
Patients will need to clean the trays each time these come out of the mouth. It does not take very long to clean the aligners. It might include placing the aligners in a cleaning solution. Alternatively, the patient can brush them with clear soap. It is also possible to find cleaning crystals designed for clear aligners.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Clear Aligners in Miami, FL
Patients who have other questions about clear aligners can make an appointment with the dentist. That way, the dentist can help the patient decide if they are the right candidate for the treatment. The dentist can also discuss options for keeping the aligners clean. It begins by making an appointment today.
Request an appointment or call South Florida Dentistry at 305-203-4097 for an appointment in our Miami office.
When a patient begins teeth-straightening treatments, clear aligners are a great option. However, some patients might wonder about the length of the treatment time. It might feel frustrating that the process seems to take a while. Keep reading to learn more about what you can expect and how long the treatment will most likely last.After…
Anyone who has worn clear aligners can attest to the effectiveness of this treatment. There is a lot to like about this approach to straightening teeth and correct bite issues. But wearing aligners should not erase a person’s responsibility of continuing good oral hygiene. To keep your teeth healthy, strong, and looking good, you should…
Clear aligners are comfortable, and they can give you a beautiful, healthy smile. Aligners have become increasingly popular due to their convenience. Many patients like that the dental appliances are removable. Clear aligners are also virtually invisible and allow people to achieve a straight smile discreetly. Keep reading to learn more about why aligners are…