The Do’s and Don’ts of Clear Aligners

Do you want to straighten your child’s teeth to improve their smile discreetly? Consider clear aligner orthodontic treatment. This method uses transparent trays to gradually move your little one’s teeth into the desired position. Unlike traditional braces, clear aligners are easy to use and can be removed when necessary. However, proper care of your child’s trays is crucial for effective treatment. If you need guidance to help them on their orthodontic journey, keep reading for tips on the dos and don’ts of clear aligner care.

DO Remove Clear Aligners for Meals

To keep their aligners clean and safe, make sure that they always remove them before eating. Have your child place their trays in their case to prevent losing or accidentally discarding them.

DON’T Let Clear Aligners Dry Out

To ensure that their clear aligner treatment is effective, it’s crucial to have your child wear the trays consistently, ideally for at least 22 hours daily. Extended periods without them can cause the trays to dry out and become more prone to breaking.

Dry aligners also create an environment where harmful bacteria can flourish, potentially impacting your little one’s gum and tooth health. Therefore, wearing their trays regularly is essential to maintain the effectiveness and longevity of their treatment.

DO Soak Clear Aligners Daily

Ensuring that your child consistently wears their aligners is crucial, but it’s equally important to remove and clean them daily. Leaving them in for extended periods can lead to the buildup of food particles and harmful bacteria, affecting their oral hygiene. Soaking them in a dedicated solution, such as clear aligner cleaning crystals, effectively removes bacteria and maintains the condition of their aligners.

DON’T Use Harmful Chemicals to Clean Your Clear Aligners

Avoid using hot water when helping your child clean their aligners. This is because the heat can alter their shape, preventing them from fitting your little one’s teeth properly. Similarly, bleach is too harsh on clear aligners and can degrade the plastic. This has the potential to damage them.

Taking good care of your child’s clear aligners trays is crucial for maintaining their condition and ensuring the success of their orthodontic treatment. the aforementioned simple steps can significantly impact the effectiveness of the process. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to help your child be well on their way to achieving a straighter smile successfully!

About the Practice

Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics is committed to delivering outstanding care for children, supporting them in achieving a radiant smile. We offer a wide range of treatments designed to enhance both the appearance and health of your child’s teeth. Our dedicated team listens carefully to your needs and customizes a treatment plan specifically tailored to your child. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, we provide long-lasting solutions that ensure lasting results. Whether you’re looking to address your child’s crooked teeth or to schedule an appointment, visit Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics’ website or call our office at (312) 766-0995.