4 Habits to Break with Spark™ Clear Aligners

When choosing an orthodontic treatment, many people prefer something that’s a little more aesthetically pleasing than the metal hardware that comes with traditional braces. Because of that, more and more people are choosing clear aligners, an orthodontic treatment option that provides a more discreet way to straighten teeth. 

Clear aligners are not only a nicer-looking orthodontic treatment but they also tend to be more convenient since they’re removable. However, it doesn’t mean that you don’t need to be vigilant about caring for them and making any necessary adjustments in your diet and oral hygiene routine. 

Our team led by Farid Hanachi, DDS, PA, at Hanachi Orthodontics in Gastonia and Mooresville, North Carolina, understands that going through orthodontic treatment is an investment of your time and finances. So, in this month’s blog, we highlight four habits you need to break while undergoing treatment with our Spark™ Clear Aligner System to ensure they work effectively.  

How do Spark clear aligners work?

Traditional metal braces use brackets and wires to apply gentle and steady pressure to your teeth and jaw that encourages them to move to new desired positions. Over time, the wires are incrementally tightened to keep the movement progression going. 

Spark clear aligners use a series of clear plastic-like trays that also use pressure to encourage your teeth to move. Each tray is custom-made to fit your mouth and help achieve your particular orthodontic needs and goals. Every couple of weeks, you swap out the old tray for the next one in the series to keep your teeth moving. 

Clear aligners offer several appealing benefits including aesthetics and comfort due to the clear plastic. In addition, because the trays are removable, you can brush and floss your teeth like normal, protecting your oral health. 

How to best care for your clear aligners

Although your clear aligners are durable, due to their makeup, they’re still prone to damage and staining. Because of that, it’s important to break these four habits to protect your aligners and make the most of your orthodontic treatment:

1. Eating or drinking while your aligners are in
2. Putting your aligners anywhere other than their designated case while eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth
3. Placing your aligners back on your teeth before brushing after eating
4. Not cleaning your aligners every night

These practices help ensure that your aligners stay clean and intact, free of bacteria and staining materials. 

If your current aligner does become unduly stained, lost, or broken, make sure to contact our team immediately to get a replacement tray. The longer you go without a tray, the more time it will take to achieve your desired results. 

For more information on our Spark clear aligner treatment, schedule a consultation by calling your nearest office location or using our online booking feature today.