Clear Aligner use and care - Patient (IFU)

Overview: Learn how to properly wear, clean, and maintain clear aligner trays to ensure treatment stability and oral health.

Seat and wear clear aligner trays

Patients must follow these steps to correctly place the clear aligner trays in the mouth:

1. Place the clear aligner trays: Gently place the clear aligner trays in the mouth and use your fingers to guide the appliance into the correct position.

2. Avoid excessive force: Do not use force or push the clear aligner trays too far into the mouth with your tongue or bite hard.

3. Use seating aids: If the clear aligner trays do not fully seat, use OrthoChews to move the trays into the correct position.

   • Compress the aligner trays using the chews until the trays are fully seated against the teeth

   • Use Chewies six to seven times daily.

   • Bite down on the Chewies for two to three minutes during each session.

4. Compress the trays: Bite down gently on the OrthoChews until the clear aligner trays are fully seated against the teeth.

5. Secure the fit: Gently bite down on the clear aligner trays to ensure a stable fit.

6. Follow dental advice: Wear the clear aligner trays exactly as directed by your dentist, including specific daily wear-time requirements.

Clean clear aligner trays daily

Daily maintenance prevents saliva and plaque from drying on the clear aligner trays:

• Rinse clear aligner trays immediately: Rinse the clear aligner trays with lukewarm water every time you remove them.

• Brush clear aligner trays gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, mild antibacterial soap to scrub away buildup inside the clear aligner trays.

• Soak clear aligner trays daily: Soak the clear aligner trays for 15–30 minutes using Aligner Cleaning Foam, hydrogen peroxide mixed with equal parts water, or white vinegar mixed with water.

• Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the clear aligner trays after soaking to remove any lingering cleaning solution taste.

Avoid damaging clear aligner materials

Improper care can warp or scratch the thermoplastic material of the clear aligner trays:

• Avoid hot water: Always use lukewarm or cold water, as hot water causes the clear aligner trays to warp.

• Avoid toothpaste: Do not use toothpaste on the clear aligner trays; abrasive particles in toothpaste can scratch the material and make it appear cloudy.

• Avoid mouthwash: Do not soak clear aligner trays in mouthwash, as the liquid can stain or damage the plastic.

• Avoid scented soaps: Do not use scented or colored soaps, as these can leave residue or stain the clear aligner trays.

• Use the carrying case: Place the clear aligner trays in a carrying case whenever the trays are not in use to protect them from damage and bacteria.

If Stained or Smelly:

• Soak in a solution of 1 part hydrogen peroxide and 1 part water for 20 minutes, or use a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water.
• Rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any lingering taste.