Whether you’re interested in improving your smile or your oral health, clear aligners can do both. But in order to achieve your desired results, it is important to wear your aligners as much as possible. The treatment is only effective if you follow your orthodontist’s instructions along the way.
How many hours a day do you need to wear your aligners? Here’s what orthodontists recommend for best results.
What Are Clear Aligners?
Clear aligners are made of flexible plastic that fits over your teeth. They are essentially invisible. Treatment consists of a set of aligners that are each worn in a specific order. They gradually shift your teeth into proper alignment by straightening crooked teeth, closing gaps, and aligning your bite. You can remove your aligners to eat and to clean your teeth, meaning there are no food restrictions and no special tools or methods required for oral hygiene.
Aim for 22 Hours of Aligner Wear Per Day
In order for clear aligners to work, it is necessary to wear them for at least 22 hours a day. If you don’t wear them enough, the teeth may not reach the intended position and you won’t be ready to switch to the next aligner. This can prolong your overall treatment time.
Tips for Reaching Your Aligner Goals
If you’re having trouble achieving the daily goal of 22 hours of wearing your aligners, these tips may help:
- Plan your meals. When you plan your meal times throughout the day, it is easier to achieve the desired number of hours. For example, plan 15 minutes for breakfast, 30 minutes for lunch, and 60 minutes or less for dinner. Or choose your own schedule according to your eating preferences.
- Avoid frequent snacking. Try to avoid snacking throughout the day, which causes you to remove your aligners more frequently.
- Track your time with an app. There are smartphone apps that allow you to track the time you wear your aligners each day.
- Set an alarm or timer. When you take your aligners out, set a timer or an alarm to remind you to put them back in.
How Long Do I Need to Wear Retainers?
Once your treatment is complete and your teeth are in the desired position, retention is necessary to maintain your results. You will need to wear retainers full time initially, then you can wear them only at night. If your retainers begin to feel tight, wear them more often until they feel comfortable each time you put them in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners
What happens if I lose an aligner?
Aligners can be replaced if lost. Call your orthodontist and let them know that you need a replacement aligner. Then wear the previous aligner until you receive a new one. This will prevent you from losing progress in your treatment.
Can my orthodontist tell if I don’t wear my aligners enough?
Some clear aligners have built in features that indicate whether or not you are wearing your aligners enough. Your orthodontist can typically tell just from looking at your teeth and monitoring your progress.
Dr. Suzanne Stock is an Orthodontist serving children and adults in Iowa City, Fairfield, Washington, and Williamsburg, Iowa. Contact us to learn more about our practice and schedule an appointment.