Eating and Drinking with ClearCorrect Aligners: Dos and Don’ts
Are you someone who wants a straighter and brighter smile but doesn’t want to deal with noticeable metal braces? If so, ClearCorrect aligners could be an ideal choice for you.
ClearCorrect clear aligners are a discreet way to fix your teeth so you can work towards a better smile without anyone noticing bulky braces in your mouth. They consist of a series of custom-made, clear, and removable aligners designed to gradually and gently align your teeth as you wear them. These transparent, removable aligners offer an inconspicuous way to transform your smile, but they also come with their own set of guidelines, particularly when it comes to eating and drinking. To ensure the successful results of your ClearCorrect treatment and preserve the results, it’s essential to understand the dos and don’ts of this orthodontic journey.
Let’s look into the key recommendations for maintaining your clear aligners while enjoying your favourite meals and drinks, helping you achieve the smile you’ve always desired with ease.
What’s Involved in ClearCorrect Treatment?
ClearCorrect teeth straightening involves several key steps designed to gradually and discreetly straighten your teeth. Here’s an overview of what’s typically involved:
Initial Consultation: Your ClearCorrect journey begins with an initial consultation with a dentist. During this appointment, your dentist will assess your oral condition, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if ClearCorrect clear aligners are the right option for you.
Treatment Planning: If ClearCorrect clear aligner is deemed suitable for your needs, your dentist will take digital impressions, photographs, and X-rays of your teeth. These records will be used to create a 3D model of your teeth, which helps in customising your treatment plan.
Custom Aligner Fabrication: Using the 3D model, a series of custom-made, clear aligners will be created specifically for your teeth. These aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth and gently exert pressure to move them into their desired positions.
Wearing the Aligners: Once your aligners are ready, you’ll receive a set of aligner trays. You’ll be instructed to wear each set for about two weeks, 22 hours a day, removing them only for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. As you progress through the sets, your teeth will gradually shift into their desired alignment.
Regular Check-Ups: Periodic appointments with your dentist will be scheduled to monitor your progress and provide you with the next set of aligners. These appointments are necessary to ensure your treatment is proceeding as planned.
It’s important to note that the effectiveness of ClearCorrect treatment largely depends on your compliance with wearing the aligners as instructed by your dentist.
At Blue Gum Dental, we offer ClearCorrect aligners to help you fix teeth alignments and achieve a straighter. Our dedicated team of dentists is committed to providing personalised care and tailored treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
Eating & Drinking with ClearCorrect Aligners: Do’s
Here are some Do’s when eating and drinking with ClearCorrect Aligners to ensure a successful treatment outcome and enjoy the freedom to savour your meals.
Remove Your ClearCorrect Aligners Before Eating
One of the most significant advantages of ClearCorrect clear aligners is that they are removable. This means you can take them out before you eat or drink. Doing so helps in several ways:
- Removing your aligners prevents food and drink particles from getting trapped between your teeth and the aligners, reducing the risk of staining or odour.
- Taking out your aligners before eating ensures they won’t be exposed to potential damage from hard or hot foods.
- You can savour your meals without restrictions, as you won’t have to worry about damaging your aligners.
Clean Teeth After Every Meal
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is paramount when wearing Invisalign ClearCorrect aligners. After you’ve enjoyed your meal, brushing and flossing your teeth before reinserting your aligners is crucial. This practice helps in several ways:
- Food particles can easily get caught between your teeth and aligners, leading to plaque buildup and potential tooth decay.
- Cleaning your teeth before putting your aligners back in keeps your breath fresh and prevents unpleasant smells.
- Removing food debris ensures a comfortable fit when you reinsert your aligners.
Avoid Chewing Gums
Chewing gum is a habit many of us have, but it’s best to avoid it while wearing ClearCorrect aligners. Gum can stick to your aligners, making them less transparent and reduces its outcome. Additionally, chewing gum can put extra pressure on your aligners, potentially affecting your treatment progress.
Clean Your ClearCorrect Aligners
Just as you care for your teeth, you should also take care of your ClearCorrect aligners. Regularly clean them using a soft-bristle toothbrush, mild soap, or a specialised aligner cleaning solution. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the aligners.
Drink Water While Wearing Aligners
Unlike eating, you can drink water while wearing ClearCorrect aligners. Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and ensures your mouth remains moist, reducing the risk of dryness or discomfort. Water also helps wash away food particles and bacteria, promoting oral health.
Eating & Drinking with ClearCorrect Aligners: Don’ts
Here are some pitfalls you should avoid when eating and drinking with ClearCorrect aligners to ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment and maintain your aligners in optimal condition.
Drinking Hot Beverages
Removing your ClearCorrect clear aligners before consuming hot beverages like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate is essential. High temperatures can warp the aligners, compromising their benefits and fit. Additionally, hot liquids can cause discomfort and may even lead to burns if your aligners trap the heat against your teeth and gums.
Don’t Forget to Put Your ClearCorrect Aligners Back In
ClearCorrect aligners are most beneficial when worn for the recommended 22 hours daily. After eating or drinking (except for water), it’s important to remember to put your aligners back in promptly. Neglecting to wear them as prescribed can prolong your ClearCorrect teeth straightening time and affect the desired results.
Washing with Hot or Warm Water
When cleaning your ClearCorrect aligners, avoid using hot or warm water. High temperatures can distort the aligners’ shape. Instead, opt for cold water when rinsing or cleaning your aligners. Never use toothpaste on aligners. Toothpaste can be abrasive and may scratch your aligners, making them less transparent and more noticeable. Mild soap or specialised aligner cleaning solutions are suitable for maintaining their clarity and cleanliness.
Begin Your ClearCorrect Journey
CearCorrect offers people looking for less noticeable teeth straightening treatment a fantastic solution. With the benefits of minimal disruption to your personal and professional life and a chance to get a straighter, more aligned smile comfortably, these custom made aligners can help you achieve your smile goals your way. If you’re interested in beginning your smile journey with ClearCorrect, our dentists can provide personalised treatment plans to help you get started.