Aligners straighten your teeth and give you a more natural-looking smile than you might have with traditional metal brackets. However, to keep these benefits, you must know how to maintain them and your teeth effectively. Below are a few suggestions to help you retain a confident smile and avoid unnecessary trips to the orthodontist. 

3 Tips For Clear Aligners 

1. Establish a Routine 

You should not wear your aligners while eating. Remove them and place them in the case provided.  Never wrap them in napkins or place them in your pocket or purse.  Although strong enough to  align your teeth, carelessness will result in broken aligners.  After eating, be sure to brush your teeth and the aligners also.  Food particles may still stick between your teeth. This is uncomfortable and increases your risk of developing cavities. 

2. Avoid Whitening Toothpaste 

Whatever toothpaste you choose, make sure it doesn’t have whitening properties. Often times with aligners “buttons” are placed on a few teeth and it is possible to lighten the teeth around the buttons, but not under them. Also, the chemicals that whiten your teeth can damage the clear aligners.  After your alignment is finished bleaching can be done to brighten up your new smile!

3. Watch What You Eat And Drink

Coffee, tea, soda, alcohol, fruit juice, curry, and almost anything with artificial food coloring can stain your teeth.  If you eat or drink these foods, brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in.  

For more professional advice about maintaining your aligners, contact Mosling Orthodontics in La Crosse, WI. With their extensive knowledge of teeth alignment, they’ve been improving smiles in the Coulee region for over 20 years. After creating a customized treatment plan to support your dental health, they’ll walk you through the steps of how to maintain and support your new smile. To make an appointment, call (608) 782-1950. Visit them online for more information about their services.