At a glance
Clear aligners only work while you wear them: about 20–22 hours a day, taking them out only to eat, drink anything other than plain water, and clean your teeth. Expect pressure or soreness for the first day or two of each new set. Please note we don’t place braces; for braces we refer you to an orthodontist.
How do I care for my clear aligners every day?
- Wear your aligners about 20–22 hours a day. Short breaks add up and can slow treatment.
- Take them out to eat and to drink anything but plain water. Hot drinks can warp them, and sugary drinks get trapped against your teeth.
- Brush your teeth, and floss if you have eaten, before putting the aligners back in.
- Clean the aligners each morning and night with a soft brush and cool or lukewarm water. Hot water can warp the plastic.
- Store them in their case whenever they are out. Many aligners are lost wrapped in a napkin.
- Switch to each new set as scheduled, and keep your previous set in case one is lost or breaks.
What should I expect with each new set?
| Stage | What to expect | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| First 24 hours of a new set | Pressure or soreness; the aligners feel tight | Keep wearing them; soft foods; pain relief only as directed |
| Days 2–7 | Soreness fades and the aligners feel looser | Full wear time, daily cleaning |
| After treatment | Teeth are in their new position but can drift back | Wear your retainer exactly as directed — usually long term |
Putting a new set in at bedtime lets you sleep through the first hours of pressure. For soreness, follow the directions on the package or from your dentist.
What if an aligner is lost, cracked or doesn’t fit?
Call us. In many cases you can wear the previous set until we sort out a replacement, but check with us first. If an aligner rubs or has a sharp edge, don’t trim it yourself; we can smooth it.
Does Richmond Dental Care place braces?
No. We don’t place braces. For braces, we refer you to an orthodontist. We can still see you for cleanings and checkups during and after orthodontic treatment. When braces come off, read how long braces removal takes. For a side-by-side look at the two options, read Invisalign vs. braces.
| Usually normal | Call us |
|---|---|
| Pressure for 1–2 days with each new set | Pain in one tooth that doesn’t fade, or a tooth that feels loose to you |
| A slight lisp for the first few days | An aligner that won’t seat fully or has cracked |
| Mild cheek or tongue irritation that settles | A sore that doesn’t heal within about a week |
When to call us
Call (832) 612-2831 if an aligner is lost, cracked or no longer fits, an attachment falls off, or one tooth hurts more than the others. We’re open Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday, 9am–3pm.
Frequently asked questions
It is best to take them out. Hot drinks can warp the plastic, and coffee can stain the aligners and your teeth.
No. Gum sticks to the aligners. Take them out to eat and brush before putting them back in.
Teeth may not move as planned, and the next set may not fit. If you have had a few days off, call us before switching to the next set.
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