Aligners may be preferable to braces for teeth straightening. Aligners are popular since they are made of clear plastic and can be taken out for eating and brushing. Although aligners are less problematic than braces, they must still be used according to the instructions. Lanzetta Orthodontics is the place to go if you need an orthodontist in Taylor, MI, who can explain aligner care to you. Here are some recommendations from them and other orthodontists.
When Can I Take Them Out During the Day?
Because aligners are removable, you may be asking how often you should take them out. The vast majority of patients wear their aligners for 20 to 22 hours each day, taking them off only to eat, drink, brush, and floss. Your aligners will feel a bit loose after about two weeks as your teeth move into their new positions. At this point, you should continue to wear your aligners. However, you can remove them for brief periods of time.
As your teeth change, your orthodontist will replace your aligners every few weeks, so don’t be shocked if they grow looser or feel out of place over time. You should expect to wear your dental aligners for 6-18 months, depending on how badly your teeth need to be straightened.
After Eating, Brush Your Teeth
Even if your aligners may be removed during meals, you should still clean your teeth before reinstalling them. Food particles can become lodged within them. If left untreated, they can discolor your teeth and give a terrible odor, in addition to causing plaque and perhaps cavities. It is also advised that you rinse your aligners with lukewarm water after eating to eliminate plaque and germs. Rinsing your mouth before putting them back in is also a good tip to follow.
Before Going to Bed, Clean Them
It would be best if you clean your aligners again before going to bed. This prevents them from becoming yellow. Brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap every night. You may also soak them for a few minutes in a denture-cleaning solution. Clean them well before reintroducing them into your mouth. Follow the instructions included with your aligner cleaning kit. Your orthodontist should have a cleaning kit accessible.
Use Caution When Using Aligners
Warping or breaking your aligners might impair your therapy, so use caution while handling them. When you remove them, keep them in a case or a safe place. Except for water, they should be avoided in all meals and beverages. If you do manage to damage your aligners, immediately call your orthodontist, such as Lanzetta Orthodontics. They will be able to inform you whether the damage is serious enough to warrant replacing the aligners at their Taylor, MI, facility.
Although aligners are becoming a more popular option for teeth straightening, they still require a substantial amount of maintenance. Taking proper care of them not only means you won’t have to replace them as frequently or as frequently visit your orthodontist, but it also means you’ll receive your results sooner and be pleased with your smile.
