Clear aligners have made it easier than ever to straighten teeth without the hassle of brackets and wires. But while they offer convenience and flexibility, getting the best results still requires a little effort. Dr. John Foley and the team at Foley Orthodontics help Cary patients stay on track by sharing the most important habits for success. Let’s start with the number one rule: Wear your aligners the right way.
Wearing Your Aligners the Right Way
Clear aligners are designed to work around the clock, which means the more they’re worn, the better the results. Dr. Foley recommends wearing them 20 to 22 hours a day, only removing them for meals and drinks (other than water), and brushing. Forgetting to put them back in or wearing them inconsistently can slow down progress and lead to trays not fitting correctly.
Tips for Staying on Track:
- Set phone reminders to put aligners back in after meals.
- Keep the case with you to avoid misplacing them.
- If an aligner is lost or damaged, contact Foley Orthodontics as soon as possible.
Wearing your aligners as much as possible keeps your treatment moving forward, but a clean set works even better. A little extra care goes a long way in keeping them fresh, clear, and free from buildup—let’s break down the best ways to keep them looking (and smelling) their best.
Keeping Your Aligners Clean
Clear aligners sit snugly over your teeth all day, which means they can trap bacteria if not cleaned properly. A little effort goes a long way in keeping them fresh, odor-free, and stain-free. Dr. Foley and the team at Foley Orthodontics recommend building a simple cleaning routine to protect both your aligners and your teeth.
How to Keep Aligners Fresh:
- Rinse often: Every time you take them out, give them a quick rinse with cool water to remove saliva and plaque buildup.
- Brush gently: Use a soft toothbrush with water or mild soap—avoid toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive.
- Soak regularly: Use a clear aligner cleaner or diluted white vinegar to keep trays clear and odor-free.
- Avoid hot water: High temperatures can warp the plastic, ruining the fit.
Keeping your aligners fresh isn’t just about appearance—it also helps protect your teeth throughout treatment. But aligners are only part of the equation! Let’s talk about the best ways to keep your teeth clean and healthy while wearing them.
Taking Care of Your Teeth During Treatment
Since clear aligners cover teeth for most of the day, oral hygiene is more important than ever. Food and plaque can get trapped against the enamel, increasing the risk of stains, cavities, or gum irritation. Dr. Foley and the team at Foley Orthodontics encourage patients to build a strong routine to keep their teeth in top shape throughout treatment.
Daily Routine for a Healthy Smile:
- Brush after meals: Since aligners keep everything sealed in, brushing after eating helps remove lingering food particles.
- Floss daily: This prevents plaque from building up between teeth and causing gum inflammation.
- Use fluoride mouthwash: This strengthens enamel and adds an extra layer of protection against cavities.
A healthy mouth leads to a better treatment experience and lasting results. Now, let’s discuss what you can eat and drink while wearing aligners.
Eating and Drinking with Clear Aligners
Clear aligners give you the flexibility to eat whatever you like, but they come with one simple rule—take them out before meals. Chewing with aligners in place can cause damage, stains, or warping that affects your progress. Dr. Foley and the team at Foley Orthodontics have a few tips to help keep your treatment on track while enjoying your favorite foods.
Do:
✔ Remove aligners before every meal or snack.
✔ Drink only water while wearing aligners to avoid stains.
✔ Brush your teeth before putting aligners back in.
Don’t:
✖ Eat with aligners in—chewing can crack or distort them.
✖ Sip on coffee, tea, or soda without removing them (unless you want stained trays!).
✖ Leave aligners wrapped in a napkin—many patients accidentally throw them away.
Making smart choices with food and drink helps keep aligners clear and your teeth healthy. Now, let’s talk about staying on schedule with aligner changes.
Staying on Schedule with Aligner Changes
Clear aligners work by gradually shifting teeth into place, and sticking to the prescribed schedule is what keeps treatment moving forward. Dr. Foley provides patients at Foley Orthodontics with a custom plan outlining when to switch to each new set of aligners. Falling behind—or jumping ahead—can impact results and lead to delays. Here’s how to stay on track:
Follow the timeline
Most aligners need to be changed every one to two weeks as instructed by Dr. Foley.
Wear aligners long enough
Each set must be worn at least 20–22 hours a day to do its job effectively.
Don’t skip ahead
Even if an aligner feels loose before the scheduled switch, jumping to the next set too soon can cause fit issues.
Keep previous aligners
If a new set is lost or damaged, having the previous aligner as a backup can prevent setbacks.
Sticking to the plan is the best way to achieve great results without unexpected delays. If you have any questions, the team at Foley Orthodontics is always ready to help. With the right habits and support, your treatment will stay on track, and the results will be well worth it.
A Clear Choice for a Great Smile
Getting the smile you want doesn’t have to be a hassle—just wear your aligners, keep them clean, and stick to the plan! With a little consistency and support from Dr. Foley and the team at Foley Orthodontics in Cary, your treatment will be smooth sailing. If you’re ready to get started or have questions about clear aligners, schedule your free consultation today. A confident smile is closer than you think—no metal required!