Care for Your Clear Aligners
Everything you need to know about wearing, cleaning, and caring for your clear aligners at Compass Dental Care.
Wearing Schedule
20–22 Hours Per Day
Wear your aligners for 20–22 hours per day. Only remove them for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing or flossing.
Change on Schedule
Each set of aligners is typically worn for 1–2 weeks before switching to the next set. Follow the schedule your dentist has given you.
Consistency Is Key
The more you wear your aligners, the better and faster your results. Inconsistent wear can delay treatment and affect the final outcome.
Inserting & Removing
Inserting
Push the aligner over your front teeth first, then use your fingertips to press it down over your back teeth. Use chewies to help seat them firmly. Never bite them into place.
Removing
Start from the back teeth on one side, gently lifting the aligner off the molars with your fingertips. Work your way around. Never use sharp objects to pry them out.
It Gets Easier
New aligners are always the tightest. After the first few days, inserting and removing becomes much easier. Aligners should fit snugly with no gaps.
Discomfort & Pressure
Normal Pressure
Some pressure and mild discomfort is normal, especially in the first 2–3 days of a new set. This means the aligners are working and your teeth are moving.
Pain Relief
Over-the-counter pain relief like Panadol or Nurofen can help if needed. Switch to a new set in the evening so the initial tightness happens while you sleep.
Sharp Edges
If a sharp edge is irritating your gums or cheeks, use orthodontic wax or dental wax to cover it. Let us know at your next visit so we can smooth it.
Cleaning Your Aligners
Rinse Every Time
Rinse your aligners every time you remove them. Clean them daily with a soft toothbrush and clear liquid soap or aligner cleaning crystals.
No Toothpaste
Do NOT use toothpaste — it’s abrasive and will scratch and cloud the aligners. Do NOT use hot water — it can warp the plastic.
No Mouthwash Soaking
Never soak your aligners in mouthwash — it can stain or discolour them. Stick to clear soap, cleaning crystals, or plain cool water.
Eating & Drinking
Always Remove First
Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. Hot beverages like tea and coffee will warp them.
Watch for Staining
Coloured drinks like coffee, red wine, and juice will stain your aligners. Avoid chewing gum with aligners in.
Brush Before Reinserting
Brush your teeth (or at least rinse well) before putting the aligners back in after eating. This prevents trapping food and bacteria against your teeth.
Storage & Attachments
Use the Case
Always store aligners in the provided case when not wearing them. Never wrap them in a napkin — they’ll get thrown away. Keep them away from pets.
Keep Your Previous Set
Always keep your previous set of aligners as a backup in case your current set is lost or broken. Store them in a labelled bag or separate case.
Attachments
Tooth-coloured attachments help aligners grip and move your teeth precisely. If one falls off, let us know — we’ll rebond it at your next visit. Brush carefully around them.
When to Call Us
• An aligner cracks or breaks
• An attachment falls off
• Severe pain that doesn’t improve after 3–4 days with a new set
• An aligner doesn’t seem to fit properly (gaps or not seating fully)
• You lose an aligner
• Irritation or sore spots that don’t improve with wax
Common Questions About Aligners
Can I drink coffee with my aligners in?
No. Always remove your aligners before drinking coffee or any hot or coloured beverages. Hot drinks will warp the plastic, and coffee will stain them. Plain water is the only drink safe to have with aligners in.
What if I lose an aligner?
Contact us as soon as possible. In the meantime, wear your previous set of aligners to prevent your teeth from shifting back. We may need to order a replacement or adjust your treatment schedule.
How long until I see results?
Many patients notice small changes within the first few weeks, but visible results typically become noticeable after 2–3 months. Full treatment can take anywhere from 3–10 months depending on the complexity of your case.
What if an attachment falls off?
It’s not an emergency, but let us know so we can rebond it at your next visit. Continue wearing your aligners as normal — they will still work, just slightly less effectively on the affected tooth until the attachment is replaced.
Questions About Your Aligners?
If something doesn’t feel right, give us a call. We’re here to help.
