How do I care for my clear aligners?

With clear aligners, taking good care of the aligner trays will ensure you get the most out of the procedure. Maintaining clean aligners and keeping them stored properly can reduce the risk of additional cost and time with your procedure. Dr. William F. Proffitt of Proffitt Dentistry in Maryville, Tennessee, can advise you on how to maintain your aligners during your journey to a more attractive smile!

What steps can I take to care for my clear aligners?

Below are a few of our dentist recommendations to achieve results and maintain the aligners throughout the process:

• Keep the aligners clean. First and foremost, cleanliness is key. To maintain a healthy and hygienic mouth, it is essential to keep your aligners clean. Bacteria can easily thrive in your aligners if they are not cleaned properly and regularly, which can lead to bad breath (halitosis) and other dental issues. To clean the aligners, you can use a soft toothbrush or soak them in denture cleaner. Avoid using very hot water, as hot water can warp the aligners
• Brush and floss your teeth immediately after each meal. It is also essential to brush and floss your teeth right after every meal before putting the aligners back on. This prevents any food particles from becoming trapped in the aligners, leading to bacteria growth that can increase the risks of developing issues such as periodontal disease
• Store them properly. When not wearing your aligners, make sure to store them in their proper case. This will prevent damage or loss and keep them away from pets or curious children. 
• Avoid eating or drinking with the aligners on. The only thing you should consume while wearing your aligners is water. Eating or drinking while the aligners are on can cause staining, as well as damage and wear down the plastic material
• Keep up with regular appointments. Regularly visit your dentist to ensure the aligners are fitting properly and to receive replacements if needed. It is also essential to stay on track with the procedure plan and make any necessary adjustments along the way

If you are interested in learning more about clear aligner therapy and the process of achieving a more attractive smile, talk to our team at our practice to find out if you are a good fit for the process.

Dr. William F. Proffitt can be reached by calling (865) 432-0804 to schedule an appointment at our office, located at 811 High Street.

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