See Also: Tracking Issues , Attachments Fall Off
Aligners—Wear and Tear
When patients wear OrthoSnap clear aligners 22 hours a day for 2-3 weeks, you can expect some wear and tear. In fact, if your patient arrives at your office and you notice aligners that look new, you should suspect noncompliance.
In this article, we will discuss:
Wear and Tear to Expect
Wear and Tear that Should Not Occur
When to Order New Aligners
6 Tips to Minimize Wear and Tear
Aligner Wear and Tear to Expect
Normal wear and tear should not impede treatment.
Common examples of normal wear and tear include:
Softening and loss of elasticity of aligners
Some breakdown of aligner material from saliva
Discoloration, especially if the patient drinks colored drinks while wearing them
If the patient grinds or clenches teeth (bruxism), the aligners may have worn down areas, as well as possibly cracks or deformities
Aligner Wear and Tear That Should Not Occur
Excessive wear and tear should be avoided.
Causes of problematic wear:
Eating or chewing gum while wearing aligners
Drinking sugary drinks while wearing aligners
Bruxism causing breakage → may require a custom mouthguard at night
Bulimia or frequent vomiting while wearing aligners
When to Order New Aligners
If the patient breaks, damages, or loses an aligner, order a replacement.
If needing to backtrack or extend a wear schedule, order fresh aligners due to softening and loss of elasticity.
How to Minimize Aligner Wear and Tear
Tip #1
Remove aligners before placing anything other than cool water in the mouth.
Do not eat or chew gum while wearing aligners.
Avoid hot liquids (distorts aligners), sugary liquids (can crack), and colored liquids (discoloration).
Tip #2
Rinse aligners with cool water after removal to remove dried saliva and prevent bacteria formation.
Tip #3
Avoid hot water when cleaning aligners.
Do not place in dishwasher (can damage or melt aligners).
Tip #4
Brush and floss after eating before putting aligners back.
Keeps food particles from causing decay or gum disease.
Tip #5
Keep aligners clean with antibacterial soap or nonabrasive toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
Avoid abrasive toothpaste that can scratch aligners.
Tip #6
Avoid soaking aligners in colored liquids.
Use clear denture or retainer cleaner to prevent discoloration.
Reasons Clear Aligners and Retainers Can Break
Biting or forcing them in
Using teeth to push them into place can stress or crack the plastic.
Improper removal
Pulling from one side only instead of evenly from both sides can cause bending or snapping.
Exposure to heat
Hot water, hot drinks, or leaving them in direct sunlight can warp or weaken the plastic.
Chewing while wearing
Eating or chewing with them on applies uneven pressure, leading to cracks.
Using harsh cleaning methods
Scrubbing with hard brushes, abrasive toothpaste, or harsh chemicals can weaken the material.
Dropping or physical impact
Accidental drops, stepping on them, or pets chewing on them can break them instantly.
Age and wear
Over time, repeated use and cleaning can slightly weaken the plastic, making it more prone to cracking.
Related Articles:
Guiding Patients on Clear Aligners & Retainers
For any questions or guidance, please reach out to our friendly support team or email us at support@orthosnap.com. We’re here to help! 🌟