Clear Braces Aftercare and Maintenance

By now, we’ve all likely heard about clear braces and how effective they are at straightening teeth without some of the problems of traditional metal or ceramic braces. There are various benefits to choosing clear braces, but it’s important to know the steps necessary to take care of your braces after you get them. 

Aftercare for clear braces

While most of us know what they are, many don’t properly care for their clear aligners. While your dentist will help you with basic information, it’s important to remember these key points when wearing your braces. 

Maintain good oral hygiene

The first step to taking good care of your clear braces is to maintain your regular oral hygiene routine still. It would be best if you continued regular brushing and flossing at least twice a day to keep teeth in good shape while the braces do their job. The importance of good hygiene is to protect your teeth from damage while the braces are in place. 

Avoid eating and drinking while wearing aligners

While keeping the aligners in is always important, it is not advised to eat or drink when you have the braces on to avoid damaging or staining them. Braces can be removed for short periods to eat or drink and should then be replaced. It is a good idea to clean teeth after eating or drinking before replacing your braces. 

Clean teeth and aligners before putting them in

Part of the regular maintenance of your braces involves making sure that both they and your teeth are cleaned thoroughly each time you put them in. Besides regular brushing and flossing, you must clean your teeth and the braces before wearing them so that stains don’t settle and any debris is clear from your teeth. It’s a good idea to use denture or retainer cleaner to keep the aligners clean and free of contaminants, as even thorough brushing may not eliminate all the bacteria and food particles. 

Don’t remove aligners for more than 2 hours

One of the most important rules for caring for your invisible braces is to make sure to wear them properly. While cleaning regularly and good oral hygiene are important, to be sure the braces do their job, they must be in your mouth a minimum of 22 hours per day. 

They can be removed for eating and cleaning but should never remain out of your mouth for long periods. If there is an emergency that makes it necessary to remove them, be sure to seek help from your dentist right away to prevent losing progress in the straightening of your teeth. 

Follow your dentist’s advice

While the rules we put together in this list are important to follow, it is also a good idea to check in with your dentist because each situation is unique regularly. Your dentist may have special instructions or advice. 

Request an appointment here: https://princewilliamdental.com or call Prince William Dental at (703) 662-8287 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.

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