Because clear aligners can be removed, oral hygiene is easier than with braces. However, since aligners fit tightly around the teeth, if they are put on unbrushed teeth they can hold food debris and bacteria against the tooth surface. This is why a regular cleaning routine during treatment is important.
Brush your teeth after eating
Brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in. If you cannot brush, at least rinse your mouth thoroughly with water and brush at the first opportunity. Do not forget to clean between your teeth with floss or an interdental brush.
Clean the aligners every time you take them out
- Rinse the aligners with lukewarm (not hot) water.
- Gently brush their inner and outer surfaces with a soft brush.
- Coloured or abrasive toothpastes can scratch and dull the aligners; preferably use plain soap or the cleaners your dentist recommends.
- Do not put the aligners in boiling water; they can lose their shape.
Drink only water with the aligners in
Sugary, acidic or coloured drinks get trapped between the aligner and the teeth and increase the risk of decay and staining. If you want to drink tea, coffee or fruit juice, take the aligners out, then rinse your mouth and put them back in.
To prevent staining
- Do not smoke with the aligners in.
- Brush your teeth after coloured foods.
- Do not leave the aligners in the sun or in a hot place.
Keep your aligners in a case
Do not wrap aligners in a napkin when you take them out; this increases the risk of losing them or throwing them away by mistake. Always keep the aligner case with you and clean it regularly.
Preventing bad breath
Daily cleaning of the aligners, brushing the tongue and drinking enough water help to prevent bad breath.
For all the details on wearing aligners, see our clear aligner wear and care guide page.
