How To Care For Your Clear Invisalign Braces

23rd December 2014

How To Care For Your Clear Invisalign Braces

Here are some tips to help ensure proper use and avoid damaging your aligners.

Aligner Insertion

1. Wear your aligners per your doctor’s instructions, usually 20-22 hours per day.
2. Always remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling aligners.
3. Handle only one aligner at a time (the upper for your top teeth and the lower for your bottom teeth). We recommend when it is time for your next aligner, that you place new aligners at night before bed. This helps to alleviate the initial discomfort you may experience.
4. You may insert either the upper or lower aligner first. Gently push the aligners over your front teeth. Then apply equal pressure, using your fingertips, to the tops of your left and right molars (back teeth) until the aligner snaps into place.
5. Do NOT bite your aligners into position as this may damage them.
6. If you experience sharp pain or significant discomfort, discontinue use of the aligners and contact the practice.

Aligner Removal

1. To remove your aligners, use your fingers, starting at the molars (back teeth) on one side first, then the other side.
2. Once aligner is disengaged from the molars on both sides of your mouth, you should be able to slowly work your way forward gently prying the aligner away from your teeth.
3. Immediately rinse the aligners with water, shaking off the excess, and store your aligners in the protective case provided.
4. To help prevent damage to the aligners, avoid unnecessary removal. Take care in removing your aligners, especially if multiple attachments are being used. Do not use excessive force to bend or twist an aligner to get it off. DO NOT use any sharp object to remove your aligners.Please contact us if your aligners are extremely difficult to remove.

Daily Care and Maintenance

1. Always clean your aligners prior to each insertion. Use a soft bristle toothbrush with water and a small amount of toothpaste. Ensure you then rinse each aligner thoroughly with water after each cleaning.
2. Do NOT use denture cleaners to clean aligners. Do NOT soak them in mouthwash. These products can damage the surface of the aligner, causing it to become dull and more visible.
3. Remove your aligners for eating and drinking. (You do not need to remove your aligners to drink cool water.)
4. Brush and floss your teeth after each meal or snack prior to re-inserting your aligners.
5. Regular dental checkups and cleaning are recommended for the continued health of your teeth and gums.

Storing your Invisalign Aligners

1. We recommend that you store your Invisalign aligners in a case when they are not in your mouth. This will help protect them from loss and damage.
2. Keep all of your past aligners in a clean plastic bag.
3. If your current aligner is lost or broken, please contact the practice for instructions. You may be instructed to return to the previous aligner until a new one can be made.