Having Trouble Removing Your Clear Aligners? Read This!

At your first official Invisalign appointment, your dental team will show you how to take care of your aligners as well as how to put them on and take them off. It seems easy enough… until you get home and are panicking because you can’t get them off. If that’s the situation you’re currently in, don’t worry – here’s a quick guide that will make removing your aligners significantly easier.

First, Wash and Dry Your Hands

Since your hands can have countless bacteria, germs, and debris, it’s important that you wash them first. Then, dry them thoroughly. This is important because – if your hands are slightly damp – it will be difficult to get a good grip on your aligners.

Tip: Use a paper towel if you need a little extra help getting a good grip!

Unhook Your Aligner, Starting From Your Molars

Many patients are tempted to start from their front teeth, but it’s actually easier to remove them from the back. First, place your index finger on the inside of your back molar, and use your fingernail to gently unhook the aligner. Then, do the same on the other side.

Gradually Work Your Way Forward

Once you have both ends of your aligner “free,” start working your way forward. If you have a lot of attachments, then don’t pull directly down. Not only can this lead to a bit of discomfort, but it can also cause them to break.

Still Having Trouble? Consider Buying an Aligner Hook!

If you’re consistently having trouble removing your aligners (or you like getting your nails done and don’t want to ruin them), consider buying an aligner hook! It’s a tool designed specifically to remove the trays, and it’s sold both online and in stores like Walmart. Plus, it’s usually only a few dollars, and it’s small enough that it can fit in the center console of your car, your desk at work, or even your on-the-go dental care kit.

About the Practice

Dr. Jeffrey Hermen actually spent five years undergoing orthodontic treatment before becoming a dentist! He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery at The OU College of Dentistry, and he has been happily serving patients in and around Oklahoma City for over 30 years. Plus, he has also completed countless hours of continuing education over the years, and he is now an Invisalign Certified Provider. If you would like to schedule a consultation with him, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call (405) 621-2100.