Are you brand new to clear aligners? Whether you’re still waiting for them to arrive or you’ve got your first set in right now, this is exciting! Your new aligners are going to give you the superstar smile you’ve always wanted.
One of the benefits of clear aligners is that you can remove them. You can’t remove braces (the traditional kind) or even invisible braces. Aligners are like removable braces that you can take out every time you eat!
We’re here to talk about how to remove your braces (aligners) when they’re feeling stuck. Read on to learn more.
First: Do You Have Attachments?
Depending on the brand of aligners that you’re using and the type of treatment that you need, you may have attachments on your teeth. While one of the best benefits of aligners vs braces is that you don’t need to wear sharp and pointy brackets on your teeth, you may still end up with tooth-colored attachments that look like brackets.
These attachments make it harder for you to pull your aligners out, but they also speed up the process of aligning your teeth.
If you have attachments, you have to be more careful when you’re removing your aligners, at least during the first few days of every new set. If you accidentally pull the attachments off, you’ll need to revisit your dentist or orthodontist.
Go Back to Front
Don’t try to remove your aligners from the front. Instead, put your fingers back where your molars are and pull from there (both sides at once). Some people find it easier to go from the lingual side (or the side that faces the tongue).
Once you unlatch the back, slowly start going forward and unlatching until the whole aligner pops out.
Consider Getting a Removal Tool
If the idea of putting your fingers in your mouth before every meal doesn’t appeal to you (especially in public), or you’re struggling to grasp your aligners, get a removal tool.
These tools look like small hooks. The hook end latches onto the aligner, and you can pull it from back to front until the aligner pops out. This is far easier for most people, especially when they’re new to aligners.
Bonus: it’s less jarring for other people when you’re eating in public.
What Not to Do
When you’re removing your aligners, be careful not to move too fast or be too rough with them. Remember, if you have attachments, this can pull them off!
If part of your aligner feels stuck, don’t yank it off. While your aligners are durable, this could crack or bend them. Be patient, take a deep breath, and try again.
Don’t panic if it hurts to remove your aligners, especially on the first day of your new set. Your teeth are still adjusting, so it’s normal to experience some pain.
That’s How to Remove Your Braces (Aligners)
Now that you know how to remove your braces, taking them out to eat or drink should be a breeze. When in doubt, get your handy dandy remover tool and pop them out with ease. It might seem annoying now, but you’ll be happy that you did it when you end up with straight and healthy teeth!
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