If you’re interested in ClearCorrect aligners, odds are you’d like to straighten your teeth the fashionable way. You’re investigating the right treatment; while traditional braces obscure your pearly whites behind metal wires and brackets, ClearCorrect trays are completely transparent. It’s the perfect way to improve your oral health with style.
However, if you don’t take good care of your aligners, they’ll get pretty gross pretty quick. Keep reading to learn how you can avoid a major wardrobe malfunction!
Proper Cleaning Techniques for ClearCorrect
Leftover food particles and bacteria alike will tarnish your aligners’ transparency, so keeping your ClearCorrect trays squeaky clean is the first step to ensuring they stay crystal clear. You can invest in special cleaning crystals to help with the process, but otherwise you should:
- Avoid colored or scented cleaning products
- Don’t use abrasive toothpastes that contain peroxides, baking soda, or charcoal
- Rinse your trays under lukewarm water whenever you remove them
- Brush your trays thoroughly in the morning and at night
These techniques will wash off icky stain-causers that might have accumulated on your aligners, all without causing damage.
Proper Cleaning Techniques for Your Teeth
ClearCorrect trays fit snugly on your teeth, so if your pearly whites are dirty, your aligners will quickly become grimy. Follow these best oral hygiene practices:
- Brush thoroughly twice per day
- Floss once per day
- Visit your dentist twice per year for a professional cleaning
Your dentist has special tools and skills for removing plaque, which is a more stubborn and dangerous form of bacteria, so be extra-sure not to skip those appointments!
The Right Place to Store Your Aligners
Very few surfaces are 100% clean. Even if they appear pristine, they’re probably harboring bacteria. Don’t set your ClearCorrect aligners down on tables, chairs, nightstands, or what-have-you. Instead, secure them away in their proper case. That way, they won’t get accidentally squashed or carried away by the family pet, either.
How Your Dentist Can Help
Besides washing your teeth for optimal oral hygiene, your dentist can also offer you personalized care tips and double-check your cleaning products. They’ll be familiar with ClearCorrect and all its quirks and will help you stay on the right track. With their guidance, maintaining your aligners and your fashionable flair will be a cinch!
About the Author
Dr. Brett Noorda has advanced training in both dental cosmetics and orthodontics, which are the two categories of care ClearCorrect aligners fall under. Dr. Noorda can help straighten your teeth to improve your oral health, and also recognizes the significance of keeping your clear aligners aesthetically appealing. If you need assistance with taking care of your ClearCorrect trays or are interested in this treatment, call his office at 702-456-7403.