ClearCorrect is an excellent way to straighten your teeth without the hassle of metal brackets and wires. However, some patients sometimes struggle to adjust to the process of removing their aligners, and what is supposed to be a convenience can quickly become a burden for some patients. Continue reading below for a few crucial tips to help you properly remove your ClearCorrect aligners, so that you can easily and successfully navigate your treatment journey.
1. Start from the Back
Before getting started, it often helps if your mouth is warm; if you’ve just had a cold glass of water, it might feel like your aligners are less flexible. Open your mouth for a few seconds to warm it up, and then get started. Lift the aligners off of the molars on each side first, and then gradually move towards the front of your mouth. You might also work from one side of the mouth to the other if that’s easier for you – but starting with the molars is better either way. If at any point you feel like the aligner is stuck, simply lift the aligner with your fingertip and over your teeth. Although they fit snugly, they shouldn’t become outright stuck – and if for some reason they do, contact your orthodontist.
2. Be Gentle and Take Your Time
This is not something that should be rushed; if you’re too quick to remove your aligners, you run the risk of harming your soft oral tissues, your teeth, your tongue, or other oral structures. The best approach is to relax and ease any feelings of stress or panic and take a few deep breaths if you need to. Then, begin to remove your aligners. A calm demeanor can be the difference between success and failure!
3. Use Appropriate Tools to Help
These days, there are different instruments designed to help patients throughout their orthodontic journey, and few are as useful as aligner hooks. These are readily available at pharmacies, general stores, online retailers, and from your orthodontic provider. They look similar to crochet hooks but are designed specifically for removing clear braces. They hook under the edge of the aligner and gently lift it away from the tooth, so consider using one if you’re still struggling to remove your ClearCorrect. Lots of people also find that a thick paper towel can help to increase the amount of grip they have on their aligners. You can also try surgical gloves, but not the type that you use to wash dishes or do housework.
Remember, removing your aligners is only going to become easier with time, so if you’re feeling discouraged at first, know that your orthodontist is also more than happy to provide you with more tips about adjusting to this part of the process.
About the Practice
Tylan Creek Family Dentistry has proudly served patients and families in the Powdersville, SC community for several years, and their team would be honored to help you and your loved ones achieve radiantly healthy smiles! They’re thrilled to offer a wide range of preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatment options, as well as ClearCorrect aligners. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to schedule an appointment, you can contact the team online or over the phone for further information or assistance. Powdersville Office Telephone: (864) 603-2200.