6 Tips for Maintaining Your Clear Aligners and Braces

Maintaining your clear aligners and braces is essential for achieving the best results in orthodontic treatment. Whether you have opted for the subtlety of clear aligners or the reliability of traditional braces, following proper care routines will ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and effectively.

Still not decided on clear aligners or traditional braces? Contact Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics. Our orthodontist helps patients in Tomball, Spring, and The Woodlands, TX, determine the best course of action for their smiles. So, don’t wait – get tailored care by calling (832) 699-3683 now! 

In today’s post, Dr. Tun reveals six tips to help you keep your aligners and braces in top condition.

1. Clean Your Aligners and Braces Regularly

One of the most important aspects of maintaining your clear aligners and braces is keeping them clean. For aligners, you should clean them every time you brush your teeth. Use a soft toothbrush and a mild, clear, unscented liquid soap or a specialized aligner cleaning solution. 

For braces, brush your teeth completely after every meal, and don’t forget to clean close to the brackets and wires to prevent buildup and tooth decay.

2. Be Mindful When Eating and Drinking

Maintaining your clear aligners and braces involves knowing when to take them out. Always remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than plain water. 

For those with braces, stay away from chewy, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage the brackets and wires. Additionally, cut food into smaller pieces to make chewing easier and reduce the risk of damage.

3. Store Aligners Properly

Whenever you remove your aligners, stow them in their special container to prevent losing or damaging them. Keeping them out in the open increases the risk of exposure to bacteria, which can cause infections or unpleasant odors. Keeping them in the case also helps prevent accidental damage or misplacement.

4. Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions

Following Dr. Tun’s instructions is crucial for maintaining your clear aligners and braces. Adhere to the recommended wear time for aligners (which most professionals suggest wearing for 20 to 22 hours daily) to ensure effective treatment. 

For braces, attend all scheduled appointments for adjustments and follow any specific care instructions provided by Dr. Tun. Ignoring these guidelines can prolong your treatment time and lead to complications.

5. Avoid Whitening Products

While maintaining your clear aligners and braces, it’s important to avoid whitening products. Whitening toothpaste and mouthwash can cause uneven coloring on your teeth because the areas covered by the brackets or aligners won’t be exposed to the whitening agents. 

Stick to regular, non-whitening toothpaste and a fluoride mouthwash to keep your teeth healthy and clean during treatment.

6. Address Issues Promptly

Addressing any issues promptly is vital for maintaining your clear aligners and braces. If you notice any cracks, damage, or discomfort with your aligners, contact Dr. Tun immediately to get a replacement or adjustment. 

For braces, if a wire comes loose or a bracket breaks, schedule an appointment as soon as possible to fix the issue and prevent further damage.

Braces and Clear Aligners Near Tomball, TX

Are you ready for a healthier, more harmonious smile? Contact Harmony Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation for braces or clear aligners. Schedule appointments with our Tomball, TX, dentist online, or simply dial (832) 699-3683 for booking and information.