Thought Leader Series: Working for That New Smile? Get the Most
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Getting a perfect smile takes some work. Not everyone was born with naturally straight, white, even teeth. Luckily, there are dentists and orthodontists to help you attain healthy chompers. Along with regular cleanings and check-ups, dental professionals can offer ways to realign teeth.
Correcting an abnormal bite or crooked teeth can help reduce other oral problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and speech issues. Clear orthodontic aligners straighten teeth discreetly, without bulky, shiny braces and brackets. The cost of the aligners is dependent on the kind you select. It’s important to get the most out of your time and money. Following are some tips to get the most out of your cosmetic dental aligners.
Keep Them On
Most orthodontists suggest that you wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. Be sure to follow their advice so your teeth will straighten accordingly and within the time frame your dentist or orthodontist has set. Keep aligners in during the majority of the day, only removing them to eat and brush.
Use an Appropriate Cleaning System
Each time you remove your aligners, you should clean them. Whichever kind of dental aligner you choose comes with its own cleaning system. The cleaning systems are formulated specifically for that type of aligner and is the best system to use. Generic products may not clean effectively and could reduce the integrity of the aligners.
No Pastes
Brushing your teeth with the aligners in and with them removed is definitely encouraged. However, orthodontists suggest that you brush the aligners with only water. Many toothpastes contain abrasives that can scratch aligners. When brushing your teeth, go ahead and brush your aligners as well. Scrub them using only cold water, as warm or hot water can warp the shape of the aligners, which are fit specifically to your mouth.
Soaks
Soaking your aligners after cleaning them is suggested by dentists. There are soak solutions to choose from, just be sure to completely remove any solution from the aligners before replacing them on your teeth. Also, some may think that using mouthwash as a soak is a good idea. Don’t even think about it. Many mouthwashes contain dyes that can discolor aligners and also contain alcohol, which can weaken the plastic in the aligners.
It is also suggested to soak your aligners if you see tartar build-up. In white vinegar, soak your aligners for thirty minutes to loosen tartar. Brush aligners after soaking and rinse thoroughly before returning them onto your teeth.
Solutions
Other cleaning solutions can be used if desired, though they are not as effective. Some denture cleaning products can clean aligners, but denture cleaning tablets can turn the aligners a yellowish tint after continued use.
Dental aligners will help you get the great-looking teeth you’ve always wanted. It’s important to take the right steps to get the full benefits of the aligners. If you find yourself unsure of something involving your aligners, ask your dentist. He or she will guide you so you can get the most out of your dental aligners.
Interested in getting dental aligners? Check us out at Watkin Dental, see what other patients say about us, and then contact us so we can determine how to best help you.
