Clear aligners have a real advantage over traditional braces: they can be removed for eating and brushing your teeth. However, this advantage becomes a trap if daily hygiene isn't rigorous — because the trays trap saliva and food debris against the enamel for long hours each day. Here is the routine you should adopt.
Why hygiene is even more critical with aligners
A clear aligner is worn 20 to 22 hours a day. If your teeth aren't perfectly cleaned before putting it back in, dental plaque remains trapped against the enamel for hours in a closed, moist environment — an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. This is why your hygiene routine matters at least as much as wearing the aligner itself.
The recommended daily routine
- Brush your teeth before every time you put the aligner back in, not just morning and night — ideally after every meal or snack.
- Clean the aligner itself with lukewarm water (never hot, as it will warp it) using a dedicated soft toothbrush before putting it back on.
- Use dental floss or an interdental brush before putting the aligner back in: the spaces between your teeth must be clean; the aligner is unforgiving.
- Avoid drinking anything other than water while wearing the aligner: coffee, tea, juice, or sodas stain the aligner and introduce acidity against the enamel.
- Finish with a fluoride mouthwash before putting the aligner back in for the night, which is the longest period of continuous wear.
The most common mistake
Many aligner wearers settle for a quick brush between meals, in a rush to put their aligners back on. The result: accumulated plaque remains trapped against the enamel for several hours, increasing the risk of cavities and staining, even though the aligner was chosen precisely for its comfort and discretion.
Why an electric toothbrush fits well into this routine
With several brushings required per day, the speed and efficiency of the process are doubly important. An electric toothbrush like Aurée allows for a thorough and consistent clean in two minutes, without compromising on quality, even for a quick brush between meals — a real asset when your aligner routine already requires several daily removals and replacements.
FAQ
Can you drink water with your aligners in? Yes, water is the only beverage recommended while wearing the trays, with no risk of staining or acidity.
Should you clean the aligner with toothpaste? No, toothpaste can scratch the clear surface of the aligner: it is better to simply clean it with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush.
How many hours a day must you wear aligners for treatment to be effective? Generally 20 to 22 hours a day, removing them only for eating, drinking (anything other than water), and oral hygiene.
Simplify your daily aligner routine with Aurée, the French electric toothbrush designed for fast and precise cleaning.