How to Make It Through Your First Week With Clear Aligners

Expect Mild Discomfort (It’s Normal)

Some degree of pain after starting orthodontic treatment is inevitable due to the force being applied to teeth and gums. Wearing clear aligners for the first time is not too different and may come with mild soreness or pressure. This is completely normal and means your aligners are doing their job. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can help alleviate this discomfort and get you through this phase of the process much more easily. When the time comes, we also recommend switching to new custom clear aligner trays before bed as this allows you to sleep through the initial adjustment period.

Stick to the 20-22 Hour Wear Time

Clear aligner therapy is most effective when aligners are worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. This means keeping them in at all times except when eating, drinking anything besides water, and brushing or flossing. Removing them too often or for extended periods can delay progress. Consistent wear ensures that your teeth move according to the clear aligner treatment plan that our local orthodontist has created and helps you achieve the best results in the shortest possible time.

Cleaning Tips for Clear Aligners

Keeping your clear aligners clean is essential for oral health and preventing odors or discoloration. Rinse them in cool or lukewarm water every time you remove them and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush. Many patients prefer to use clear, unscented soap while others like brushing with toothpaste as they also clean their teeth at the same time. If the latter is used, it will need to be non-abrasive, i.e., nothing containing charcoal or whitening ingredients. Soaking aligners in a cleaning solution specifically made for dental appliances a few times a week can also keep them fresh.

Different soaking solutions we recommend include:

• Small amount of gentle liquid soap + a cup of water
• One part vinegar + 3 parts warm water 
• Tbsp. of baking soda + ½ cup water
• Denture cleanser 

Eating and Drinking With Aligners

You must remove your dental aligners before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. Hot liquids can warp the plastic, and food particles trapped inside the trays can lead to tooth decay. After eating, brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners to avoid trapping food and bacteria. If brushing isn’t possible, try rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water.

Taking care of your teeth after eating also helps you avoid staining your clear aligners. Although it may be an inconvenience to brush and floss after every meal, it’s better than allowing your aligners to get yellow and smelly.

Speak and Smile with Confidence

Wearing clear aligners for the first time may temporarily affect your speech. A slight lisp is common but disappears fairly quickly as your mouth adjusts. Practice speaking out loud or reading aloud to speed up this adjustment. Since aligners are virtually invisible, you can feel confident smiling throughout your treatment—a major benefit compared to metal braces or even the more subtle ceramic braces.

Preparing for Clear Aligner Treatment

If you’re considering straightening teeth with clear aligners, the first step is an evaluation. During this one-on-one consultation, our orthodontist will assess your bite, alignment issues, and overall oral health to determine if clear aligners are right for you. Not all orthodontic concerns can be treated with this form of treatment, but many common issues such as mild crowding or spacing can be effectively managed.