Are you finding it difficult to remove your clear aligners? Although the benefits these trays offer are worth the struggle, it can still be frustrating trying to take them out when you want to eat, drink, or give them a good cleaning. Instead of battling your aligners each time, take a look at these three tips to help you get the hang of the removal process.
Why Are SureSmile Clear Aligners Hard to Remove?
Orthodontic treatment that relies on clear aligners to shift teeth must be crafted to fit snugly against your teeth. Metal brackets and wires do not require this consideration, as they are affixed to the enamel surface. However, aligners are removable, but they should not slide off easily.
Snug-fitting trays ensure the appropriate amount of gentle pressure is placed on your teeth to keep them moving in the right direction. If they are loose, your pearly whites will not shift, defeating the purpose of treatment. Also, they will appear more visible – a factor many patients want to avoid when choosing clear aligner treatment.
How Can You Easily Remove Your SureSmile Clear Aligners?
If you are tired of being unable to remove your aligners effectively, consider these three tips that are designed to make this aspect of treatment significantly easier:
- Start in the Back: Instead of trying to remove your trays from the front of your mouth, start toward the back. All you need to do is hook your fingertip underneath the tray and place it between the aligner and the interior of your back molar. You can then pull down or up (depending on if it’s on a lower or upper arch) before slowly working your way toward the front of your mouth.
- Purchase an Aligner Hook: If you don’t want to mangle your fingernails or find it hard to get a firm grip, you can purchase an aligner hook to make removing them easier. This unique device looks similar to a crochet hook and can be placed at the end of the aligner. Using a gentle motion, you can place the hook between your tooth and the tray and slowly pull it away so that it detaches. The only thing you need to remember with an aligner hook is to be mindful not to scratch your gums or teeth.
- Keep Your Mouth Dry: This tip is not something you should follow all the time but only when preparing to remove your aligners. A dry mouth creates an easier opportunity for you to remove the trays without your fingers slipping. Just open your mouth and allow it to become dry – this should only take a few seconds. You’ll notice you have a better grip when reaching for your aligners, allowing you to successfully remove them.
Don’t continue to struggle with your SureSmile trays when there are helpful tips you can use to make removing them easier. If it continues to be too difficult to take them out, talk to your dentist to see if they have any additional tips or suggestions.
About the Author
Dr. Hannah Corcoran is a dentist in Waverly who completed her dental degree at The Ohio State University. Committed to continuing education, she regularly attends training and completes courses on various topics and strives to use the latest dental technology to create more comfortable patient visits. Offering SureSmile clear aligners for those who need straighter, healthier teeth, she provides helpful tips so that patients can have a more positive orthodontic experience. If you need help to remove your aligners, visit our website or call (740) 908-8533 to schedule an appointment today.