Which Oral Care habits can brighten up your smile?

Some people notice they've lost a little weight after starting clear aligner treatment. It can happen, especially during the first few weeks, when taking the trays out for every meal and snack takes some getting used to. Sore teeth can also make eating less appealing for a day or two. The amount of weight lost varies from person to person, and not everyone experiences this change. Below, we'll break down why it happens, whether it's actually good for you, and what to know before treating your aligners like a diet plan.

Taking your clear aligners out while you're away from home is part of everyday life. The important part is knowing where to keep them until it's time to wear them again. Whether you're eating at a restaurant, traveling, running errands, or attending a social event, instead of leaving them on the table or wrapping them in a tissue or napkin, place them in a protective aligner case. Poor storage can lead to lost, damaged, or dirty aligners.

Can you clean aligners with mouthwash? Mouthwash is not the preferred way to clean clear aligners. It is formulated for rinsing your mouth, while aligner-safe cleaning products are designed to clean the trays. Coloured mouthwash can also stain or discolour clear plastic. Remove your aligners before using mouthwash, then clean your trays separately with cool or lukewarm water and an approved cleaning method.