One of the best features of clear aligners is that they are removable. You can (and should) take the trays out of your mouth at least a few times each day so you can eat your meals and care for your oral hygiene. But what if it is challenging to get your orthodontic appliances out of your mouth? This blog post provides some practical tips on how to easily remove your clear aligners.
Start at the Back
Rather than grabbing the front of your aligner and trying to tug it out, reach into your mouth and start removing it from the back. Put a fingertip on the inside of your aligner where it surrounds one of your back molars, and then gently pull it away from your teeth. Do the same thing on the other side of your mouth and work your way forward.
Do Not Remove after a Cold Drink
It is perfectly okay to sip on cold water while your clear aligners are in your mouth. However, you should note that the drink’s low temperature might cause your plastic trays to lose some of their flexibility. It is usually easier to remove aligners when they are at room temperature.
Also, keep in mind that you should not consume a hot beverage in the hopes of loosening your aligner. The high temperature could warp the plastic and cause it to become unusable.
Supplement Your Grip
Do your bare fingers seem to slide right off of your aligners? You might need a bit of extra help to get a good grip. Many people find that a paper towel makes it much easier to grasp their trays. You could also use thin surgical gloves.
Use an Aligner Hook
An aligner hook resembles a crochet hook, but it has a very different purpose. You can use it to gently tug your aligners off of your teeth without the inconveniences that come with using your bare hands. A hook can be particularly helpful if your aligners have attachments on them.
Be cautious when you are using an aligner hook; you do not want to accidentally harm your gums or other soft tissues.
Trim Your Fingernails
Long nails can look beautiful, but they have their downsides. They might even make it more difficult for you to grip your aligners. Try to keep your nails on the shorter side so your treatment can be as stress-free as possible.
It might take a bit of learning before you can easily remove your clear aligners. Soon, though, it should be an automatic part of your daily routine.
Meet the Practice
Our practice is home to a large team of general dentists and specialists. We proudly offer clear aligners and numerous other forms of orthodontic treatment. If you have questions about what to expect while you are straightening your teeth, we would love to speak with you. Get in touch with our Wellesley dental office at 781-691-4914.