Aligners only move teeth while you are wearing them. Consistent wear is the most important part of treatment.
Wear time
- Wear your aligners about 20–22 hours a day, or as your dentist instructs. Take them out only to eat, drink anything other than plain water, and clean your teeth.
- Switch to the next set only on the schedule you were given.
Eating and drinking
- Remove aligners to eat and to drink anything except plain water. Hot drinks can warp them and sugary drinks trapped under them can cause decay.
- Brush (or at least rinse well) before putting them back in.
Cleaning
- Rinse aligners when you take them out and brush them gently with cool water. Hot water can warp them.
- Always store them in their case, never in a napkin.
Comfort
- A new set often feels tight for 1–2 days. This means it is working.
- Keep your previous set in case one is lost or broken.
Call our office right away if
- An aligner cracks, is lost or no longer fits
- An attachment (tooth-coloured bump) comes off
- Sharp edges are cutting your gum or tongue
This handout is general information. Always follow the specific instructions your dentist gives you, which may differ from this sheet. For a medical emergency, such as trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling spreading toward the eye or neck, or bleeding that will not stop, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Content last reviewed: 2026-10.