Here at Hutta Orthodontic Specialists, our goal as a family-run practice is to ensure every patient has the smooth, successful orthodontic journey they deserve. As such, we take the time to understand every individual and their unique dental needs, starting with a complementary consultation, before recommending a well-thought-out treatment plan. We also offer clear aligners for patients of all ages. However, although they’re transparent, comfortable, and convenient, they also require the proper upkeep in order to deliver the best results. That’s why taking the time to care for your trays is essential in keeping your treatment on track. With a few simple tips and tricks, though, you can get the smile you’ve always dreamed of!
Wear your aligners as recommended
While new aligners can be challenging to get used to, it’s crucial to wear them anyway! For the best results, you should wear aligners for 20–22 hours per day, or as recommended by our expert orthodontists, Dr. Hutta and Dr. Kamrani. In fact, they should only be taken out to eat or drink. This is because when you don’t wear your aligners often enough, you risk delaying your treatment or causing your teeth to shift in unexpected ways. Following Dr. Hutta and Dr. Kamrani’s instructions helps ensure your treatment goes according to plan and reduces the risk of misplacing your aligners. Plus, the more consistent you are with your aligners, the easier and more comfortable the adjustment process will be.
Avoid eating or drinking
While our trays are 3D-printed in-house using durable plastic, they aren’t designed to withstand the pressure and staining brought on by eating and drinking. Hot drinks like coffee can sometimes warp the plastic. And, dark drinks like tea and soda can stain aligners. Remove aligners before enjoying meals, snacks, or drinks. After eating, rinse your mouth and brush your teeth before putting them back in. We also like to warn our patients that eating or drinking with their equipment in can cause food and sugar to build up, increasing the risk of cavities and bad breath.
Clean your aligners daily
Dr. Hutta and Dr. Kamrani recommend cleaning each tray every day, as it is crucial for keeping them clear, fresh, and bacteria-free. Dirty orthodontic equipment can develop buildup, stains, and even odors over time, all of which are bad for your oral health. Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and gently brush them with a toothbrush every time you eat. You can also use a clear, unscented antibacterial soap if needed, just avoid toothpaste, as it can scratch the plastic.
Soak your aligners regularly
Patients can also give their appliance a deeper clean by soaking it daily, or even just several times a week, with products specifically made for orthodontic equipment, such as special crystals or tablets. Say goodbye to stubborn buildup or cloudiness! If you need help finding the right tablets for you, just ask our office for recommendations! Soaking helps eliminate bacteria and keeps your aligners looking their best. It’s also important to rinse each tray thoroughly after soaking it to remove any remaining bits of cleaning solution. Dr. Hutta and Dr. Kamrani recommend setting phone reminders so you never forget!
Store properly
When you’re not wearing your aligners during meals, you can store them in their plastic case. Leaving your aligners exposed on a counter, in a napkin, or in your pocket can be risky! Using the case HOS provides not only protects against bacteria and debris but also helps prevent costly replacements. We even recommend personalizing your case, as it makes it easier to spot and harder to forget!
However, if you do happen to lose your trays, simply let our team know, and we can print you a new set right here in our Worthington office!
Take care of your appliance
Our innovative and custom-made aligners are extremely durable, but not indestructible. Aligners can bend, melt, crack, or be damaged, so be careful! Even small cracks or warps in the appliance can prevent it from working properly, which could, in turn, extend your treatment time. This is why we tell patients to use both hands when inserting or removing a tray and to never force it into place or yank it out too aggressively. Rather, being gentle and mindful during insertion and removal helps your gear preserve its shape and keeps your smile progression right on schedule.
If you’re struggling with a tight or crooked fit, reach out to our HOS team; we always love to hear from our patients and are happy to help or answer any questions.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene
The maintenance and protection of your clear aligners should look similar to the maintenance and protection of your teeth. Aligners often trap leftover food particles or plaque against your enamel, creating a higher risk of cavities and gum problems. That’s why it’s so important to brush and floss after every meal, before putting your aligners back in. If brushing isn’t possible (like when you’re on the go), just rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
It’s also a good idea to use fluoride toothpaste and an antibacterial mouthwash to give your mouth extra protection. Regular dental cleanings and exams will ensure that your mouth and gums stay in top condition, setting you up for a lifetime of beautiful, confident smiles; just how we like it at HOS!
Keep up with treatment and check-ins
Throughout the orthodontic process, every patient has scheduled check-ins with Dr. Hutta or Dr. Kamrani to monitor their progress and receive their next set of trays. These appointments are crucial. Each visit lets our team check your teeth and address any issues as soon as possible. Plus, we can give you tips for keeping each tray in top condition and answer any questions you might have. However, if you do need to miss or cancel a visit, our team is happy to promptly reschedule it and keep your smile journey on schedule.
By wearing them consistently, cleaning them daily, storing them carefully, and practicing great oral hygiene, you can make sure your aligners stay clean, comfortable, and effective.
At Hutta Orthodontic Specialists, our 20+ years of experience show! Dr. Hutta, Dr. Kamrani, and the rest of our friendly team are here for you every step of the way. If you have questions about your clear aligners or need a little extra guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out or call our office at (614) 885-2000. Your dream smile is on the way, and taking care of your aligners can help it get there even faster!
