Clear aligners are designed to fit into everyday life, but they do take some getting used to. The biggest factor in how well treatment goes is how consistently you wear your aligners. These practical tips cover the questions people most often ask once they’ve started.
Wear time: the golden rule
Aligners usually need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. That leaves around two to four hours for meals, drinks other than water, and cleaning. If you leave them out for long stretches, teeth won’t move as planned, and the next set may not fit properly.
- Set phone reminders to put aligners back in after meals.
- Try to limit eating to set mealtimes rather than snacking throughout the day.
- Use an aligner case every time they’re out. Wrapping them in a napkin is the most common way they get thrown away.
Eating and drinking
Take aligners out to eat. Chewing with aligners in can crack them, and food trapped under the plastic sits against your teeth.
Plain water only with aligners in. Sugary, acidic or hot drinks, including coffee, tea, juice, soft drink and wine, should be drunk with aligners out. Sugary drinks can be trapped against your teeth, increasing the risk of decay, and hot drinks can warp the plastic. Coffee, tea and red wine can also stain the trays.
Brush or rinse before putting them back in. Ideally brush after eating. If you can’t, rinse your mouth well with water and brush when you can.
Cleaning your aligners
- Rinse your aligners each time you take them out.
- Brush them gently morning and night with a soft toothbrush and cool water. A small amount of clear, unscented soap can help; avoid coloured or abrasive toothpaste, which can scratch and cloud the plastic.
- Never use hot water, as it can warp them.
- Use aligner cleaning crystals or tablets if your dentist recommends them.
Keeping your teeth clean
Good oral hygiene matters even more during aligner treatment. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily. Plaque left on teeth under aligners can lead to decay and gum inflammation.
Discomfort and new sets
Each new set of aligners can feel tight for a day or two. That pressure is a sign your teeth are moving. Some tips:
- Change to a new set at night, so the tightest period happens while you sleep.
- Eat softer foods for the first day of a new set.
- Over-the-counter pain relief can help if needed.
- If an aligner edge rubs your gum or cheek, contact your dentist, as it can be smoothed. Orthodontic wax can help in the meantime.
Speaking with aligners
Many people notice a slight lisp for the first few days. Reading aloud or talking more than usual helps your tongue adapt faster.
If you lose or break an aligner
Contact your dentist. Depending on where you are in treatment, they may ask you to move to the next set, go back to the previous one, or order a replacement. Don’t simply stop wearing aligners while you wait.
Travelling
- Pack your case, a travel toothbrush and your current and previous aligners.
- If you’re away for a while, ask your dentist if you can take your next sets with you.
- On flights, take aligners out to eat and drink anything other than water, then clean and replace them.
Sport and special events
Aligners aren’t a substitute for a mouthguard in contact sports. Ask your dentist what to do. For special events, it’s fine to take aligners out for a meal, but keep it short and put them back in soon afterwards.
Check-up appointments
You’ll usually see your dentist every six to ten weeks to check that your teeth are moving as planned. Bring your aligners to every appointment.
After treatment
Your teeth will want to move back for some time after treatment ends, so wearing your retainer as instructed is essential to keep your result.
Read more about how Invisalign works or visit our Invisalign page. Invisalign at Parramatta Dentistry ranges from $4,200 to $8,990, including impressions, smile design, your aligners and final retainers. Conditions apply.
Frequently asked questions
Can I chew gum with Invisalign?
No. Gum sticks to aligners and can damage them. Take your aligners out if you chew gum, then clean your teeth before putting them back.
Can I drink alcohol with aligners in?
It’s best to remove aligners before drinking alcohol, especially wine, which can stain the trays. Rinse or brush before putting them back in.
Do I need to wear aligners when I sleep?
Yes. Night-time wear is an important part of reaching 20 to 22 hours a day.
What if my aligner doesn’t fit properly?
Contact your dentist. A poorly fitting aligner can mean teeth haven’t moved as expected. Don’t move ahead to the next set without advice.
How do I stop my aligners smelling?
Clean them morning and night, rinse them every time you take them out, brush your teeth before putting them back in, and let them dry in a ventilated case when they’re out.
Book at Parramatta Dentistry
Parramatta Dentistry is at Suite 25, Level 3, 27 Hunter Street, Parramatta, a short walk from Parramatta Station. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm, and HICAPS is on site, so you can claim from your health fund on the day and pay only the gap, if there is one. Call (02) 8090 1109 or book online.
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for personalised advice from your dentist.