Why You Should Not Use Toothpaste on Clear Aligners

Patients who have clear aligners should avoid using toothpaste on them. There are a few reasons for that. The good news is there are other ways of keeping the aligners clean. Continue reading to learn more about keeping the mouth healthy during clear aligner treatment.

Toothbrush and clear aligners

The orthodontist might suggest soaking the clean aligners in a retainer or denture cleaning solution. That comes from a tablet dissolved in a cup of water. The aligners can soak in it, which loosens the plaque and bacteria. The orthodontist might advise against using toothpaste.

The toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch the aligner's surface. Patients who want to brush the aligners can use a clear soap instead. It is critical to use a soft toothbrush on them. Patients should rinse the aligners in cool water since hot water can change the shape of the devices.

It is also essential to avoid using mouthwash on the aligners. That includes using it while wearing the trays. The mouthwash might be harsh on the plastic because of the ingredients. Plus, many have dyes and other chemicals that can change the color of the trays. That means they will no longer be clear and look subtle in the mouth.

Keeping the trays clear

There are a few ways patients can keep the aligners clear and looking natural. However, one of the most critical ways is by only keeping up with the cleaning. The patient should brush the teeth before placing the aligners in the mouth. An orthodontist might tell you to avoid colored sodas, tea, coffee, or juice while wearing the trays. Rinsing the mouth is the minimum if a patient cannot brush after the meal.

If there are stains, these might come from a lack of proper cleaning. Patients can take a small bowl or cup and use a solution of one-part hydrogen peroxide and one-part warm water. Then the trays can stay in the solution for several hours. That is the right solution if the trays are cloudy because of a lack of cleaning. Some baking soda on a toothbrush can remove other buildups and stains, but patients should be careful. It is abrasive and could cause scratches on the surface.

Frequency of cleaning the trays

Patients will need to clean the trays each time these come out of the mouth. It does not take very long to clean the aligners. It might include placing the aligners in a cleaning solution. Alternatively, the patient can brush them with clear soap. It is also possible to find cleaning crystals designed for clear aligners.