Aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours each day, removed only for eating, drinking
anything besides water, and brushing. The habits below keep the trays clear and your
teeth healthy across treatment:
- Rinse every time you remove them: Bacteria and saliva dry onto the surface quickly, causing odor and cloudiness.
- Clean with a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap: Toothpaste is abrasive and will scratch the plastic, making aligners appear dull over time.
- Use cool or lukewarm water only: Hot water warps the plastic and can compromise the precise fit against your teeth.
- Store in the case when not wearing: Loose aligners get lost or damaged, and replacements slow your treatment timeline.
- Brush before reinserting: Food particles trapped under the tray sit against your enamel for hours and increase cavity risk.
- Avoid staining beverages while wearing: Coffee, tea, and red wine discolor clear plastic noticeably, even after brief exposure.