Clear aligners must be removed before you begin to eat or drink. They must also be taken out when preparing to clean them. As a result, knowing how to remove your trays properly (and easily) is fundamental. However, it’s common for patients to struggle with this process, especially at the start of treatment. If you need help getting a better grip on your aligners, keep reading to discover a few tips that can help.
Why Are Clear Aligners Difficult to Remove?
For some individuals, removing clear aligners can be challenging simply because the trays are designed to fit snugly against a person’s teeth. This ensures teeth will receive the necessary pressure to shift them into alignment.
If aligners are loose, the teeth will not move but instead remain in place, defeating the purpose of treatment.
Easy Removal Tips to Try
You can try a few helpful tips to make the removal process less trying. It is important to remember, though, that leaving your aligners in when eating or drinking is not an option. Failing to take them out can cause damage, staining, and ultimately, a delay in your treatment.
You can try:
- Drying Out Your Mouth – If you open your mouth for a few seconds and let it become dry, you’ll find it easier to get a better grip on your aligners. This should cause them to pop away from your teeth.
- Starting Toward the Back – It is easier to start at the back of your mouth and slowly work your way toward the front. You can hook your fingertip in between the aligner and your tooth, carefully pulling down (or up) to release it. You can then move along the tray to perform the same process until it is fully removed.
- Use an Aligner Hook – Certain products can make living with clear aligners much easier, one of which is an aligner hook. Instead of relying on your fingertips or nails to do the job, you can purchase one of these. They look like a crochet needle and hook into the aligner, providing the force you need to remove your trays.
- Relax – If you tense up or become frustrated while trying to take out your aligners, you’ll find it is much harder to do. Instead, relax your body and your breathing. Otherwise, you might accidentally damage your aligners or teeth.
Eating, drinking, and keeping them clean will no longer be a struggle once you get the hang of removing your aligners. Instead, you can enjoy wearing them and working toward a straighter smile.
About Grand Dental – South Elgin
At Grand Dental – South Elgin, we have an experienced orthodontic team that is equipped to straighten and realign patients’ teeth with the help of clear aligners. As a more discreet alternative for individuals who prefer to avoid metal, these trays are easy to use and more convenient than traditional braces. However, removing these aligners can take practice, which is why we are pleased to provide helpful tips to make the process less cumbersome. If you need assistance or want to know more about clear aligners, visit our website or call us at (847) 999-0935.