Daily cleaning that actually works
- Rinse trays when you remove them, then give them a gentle clean morning and night.
- Use a soft toothbrush (kept just for your trays) and a small amount of clear, mild liquid soap under lukewarm water.
- Hot water can warp the plastic and alter the fit, so stick to cool to lukewarm.
- Avoid toothpaste. Many pastes contain abrasive particles that scratch and cloud the surface. Scratches make trays look foggy and can trap plaque.
- A short daily soak helps control odour and biofilm. Use aligner-specific crystals or a mild, non-coloured cleaner as recommended by your clinician. Rinse thoroughly before reinserting.
- Skip mouthwashes with dye or alcohol and never use the dishwasher. These products can stain or damage trays and leave a lingering taste.
Good aligner care goes hand in hand with tooth care. Brush and floss before trays go back in, so you are not trapping food acids against enamel. That simple step does more to prevent bad breath and decalcification than any soak.
Cleaning do’s and don’ts
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Rinse after removal and before reinsertion | Use hot water or dishwashers |
| Brush trays gently with a soft brush and clear soap | Scrub with abrasive toothpaste or hard bristles |
| Soak briefly in an aligner-safe solution as advised | Use coloured mouthwash or harsh cleaners |
| Brush and floss your teeth before trays go in | Eat or drink sugary/coloured drinks with trays in |
How to store clear aligners the right way
- Trays go in the case any time they are not in your mouth. A sturdy, ventilated case prevents loss, warping, and pet damage.
- Keep one case at home and a spare in your bag for meals at work or uni.
- Resist wrapping trays in tissues or napkins, as they are easily binned by mistake.
- If you are switching to the next set, keep the previous set as a short-term backup in case of loss or damage until your clinician says otherwise.
Food, drink and lifestyle
- Remove trays to eat. Water is fine with trays in, everything else out.
- Coffee, tea, wine and sports drinks can stain trays and bathe teeth in sugar or acid.
- Smoking and vaping can also discolour trays and dry the mouth, which encourages odour.
- If you snack often, build in short brushing sessions or at least rinse the mouth well before trays go back in.
These simple habits reduce halitosis while you are in treatment.
Troubleshooting common problems
Cloudy or smelly trays
This usually points to plaque buildup or the wrong cleaning method. Step up mechanical cleaning with a soft brush and switch to a short daily soak in an aligner-approved cleaner. Check your water temperature and stop using toothpaste or abrasive powders. If odour persists, ask your clinician to review your oral hygiene and tray fit.
Sore spots on cheeks or tongue
Occasional rubbing can occur, especially after a new set. Orthodontic wax on the edge can offer temporary relief. Do not trim aligners at home unless your clinician instructs you. Persistent ulcers or sharp edges deserve a review appointment to smooth the tray or adjust the plan.
Tight trays after time out
Aligners start to “rebound” if left out for extended periods. Seat them fully with chewies as directed and increase wear to full time again. If the tray will not seat or leaves a gap after a day of diligent wear, contact your provider before skipping ahead. Wearing aligners for the prescribed 20–22 hours is essential for predictable tooth movement.
Lost or cracked tray
Place the previous set to hold your position and contact your clinic promptly. Do not jump to the next set unless advised. Your clinician may order a replacement or make a small plan adjustment, and timely action reduces setbacks.
Looking to buy ClearCorrect aligners in Australia?
If you are comparing options, your dentist can advise on suitability, projected treatment time, and total fees, including ClearCorrect aligners cost in Australia where relevant to your location and plan. Seek personalised advice rather than relying solely on marketing claims.
Also Read: The True Cost of Clear Aligners in Australia: Understanding Your Options
Final checklist to keep treatment on track
- Wear trays 20–22 hours daily. Remove only for meals and oral hygiene.
- Clean gently twice a day. Avoid hot water and abrasive toothpaste.
- Soak briefly in an aligner-appropriate cleaner; rinse well.
- Store in a ventilated case, not a napkin or pocket. Keep a spare.
- Call your clinic for broken, warped, or persistently smelly trays, even small issues can derail progress.
Clear aligner therapy can be discreet and comfortable, provided you treat the trays as precision devices. Thoughtful care saves chair time, protects enamel, and keeps your smile plan moving. For more assistance, your own dentist remains the best source of tailored advice on ClearCorrect aligners in Australia and day-to-day care.