Wearing clear aligners makes it easy to enjoy orthodontic treatment. More so than if you were to opt for traditional metal braces. However, you might find that attempting to remove these trays is a bit more difficult than you might have anticipated. Fortunately, a dental expert is here to answer how you should remove your clear aligners by delivering helpful tips to make the process easier so that you can continue to pursue a straighter smile without frustration.
What is the Purpose of Ensuring Clear Aligners are Fitted?
When choosing clear aligners for orthodontic treatment, you’ll find that the impressions taken of your teeth are designed to help technicians build aligners that will fit snugly once in place. The reason for this is that your teeth need continuous, gentle pressure to be applied if they are to move into their proper place.
Loose aligners will be unable to shift smiles, thus negating the point of treatment. Your dentist will make sure that during your fitting, your trays fit tightly against your teeth, as this will ensure successful results.
What Tips Can Help to Make Removing Aligners Easier?
At first, removing your clear aligners might seem like an impossible feat – one that puts them at risk of breakage. However, they are not designed to stay inside your mouth forever, so they are removable. The trick is to identify the easiest ways to do it without damaging your teeth or your aligners.
A few tips to do this include:
- Starting at the back of your mouth, remove them using your fingertip. By pulling the aligner away from your molars, you can more easily work your way forward.
- Avoid drinking anything cold before trying to take them out, as this makes it harder. A warmer mouth will help to loosen the tray.
- You can try to remove your aligner once your mouth is dry. If necessary, you can breathe in several times with your mouth open so that it is less moist.
- There is the option to use a paper towel or rubber gloves, as they offer a more solid grip that makes it easier to take your trays out.
- You can purchase an aligner hook that makes the entire removal process easy and seamless. By inserting it at the end of the tray, you can gently move it away from your teeth.
You’ll also find that keeping your nails short and staying relaxed makes the process less stressful.
Once you have the desired method down, wearing clear aligners won’t seem like a cumbersome task. Instead, you’ll be able to enjoy treatment and watch as you move closer to a perfectly aligned smile.
About our Author
Dr. Jordan Hardin is a dentist in Plano who studied at the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry in Lincoln, earning his DDS degree. After spending time in Amarillo at a local dental office, he serves as the lead expert here at Westpark Village Dental of Plano. Helping individuals who want to straighten their teeth, he offers ClearCorrect aligners as a more flexible and subtle form of treatment. Visit our website or call (972) 964-8989 to find out how we can help you stay the course to a healthier, straighter, and more beautiful smile.