When you were with your dentist, putting on and taking off your clear aligners seemed so easy. Now that you are home from your appointment and trying to remove them, it seems considerably more difficult. Sound familiar?
Don’t worry – this is a very common occurrence for patients who just started their Invisalign treatment, so you’re not alone. Not only that, but there are a few simple steps you can take to easily and painlessly remove your aligners. With this in mind, read on!
Dry Your Hands Thoroughly
It’s very easy for germs, bacteria, and dirt to collect on your hands, so it’s always a good idea to wash them before putting them in your mouth. When you’re done, dry them thoroughly (if you don’t, then it can be difficult to get a good grip on your aligners). You can also use a paper towel if you need a better grip!
Start From the Back of Your Mouth
Instead of starting from the front of your mouth, start from the back. Place your index finger on the inside of your back molar, and use your fingernail to gently unhook the aligner. Do your best not to pull directly down, especially if you have attachments. Instead, slightly angle away from the other side of your tooth so the aligners don’t get caught on the resin.
Gently Work Your Way Forward
After you’ve unhooked your aligners from your molars, start working your way forward. As mentioned above, it’s helpful to slightly angle away from your tooth so your aligners don’t get caught on your attachments. Remember, feeling panicky and stressed will only make it worse, so be patient, control your breathing, and take breaks, if necessary!
Store Your Aligners Properly
Once you remove your aligners, don’t just wrap them in a napkin, place them on your plate, or leave them on your bathroom counter. Instead, rinse them with clean, cool water and put them in their designated case. This is a small habit that will prevent them from discoloring, developing an unpleasant odor, or accidentally getting misplaced.
Bonus Tip: Buy an Aligner Hook!
Is removing your aligners still proving to be difficult? Are you less than enthused about having to use your hands to take them off? Maybe you like getting manicures and don’t want to ruin your nails in the process. Whatever the case may be, consider an aligner hook! These tools are sold both in-store and online, and they are designed to make removing your trays a breeze.
About the Practice
Our team at Salvaggio Dentistry recognizes that – even if you do a lot of research – the transition into life with braces can be a bit bumpy. That’s why we go above and beyond to help our patients! We’re proud to share helpful tips, offer convenient appointment times, and provide comfort amenities so each visit is as positive and stress-free as possible. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation with us, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (289) 569-0721.