Complete Care Guide for Your GoClear Aligners
Proper aligner care ensures they remain crystal clear, hygienic, and effective throughout your treatment. Here's your comprehensive guide to looking after your GoClear aligners.
Daily Cleaning Routine
Morning
Always clean your aligners first thing in the morning. Bacteria accumulate overnight, so rinse your aligners under lukewarm water and gently brush them with a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste — it's abrasive). Brush your teeth thoroughly before reinserting your aligners.
After Every Meal
Remove aligners before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. After eating, brush your teeth or at minimum rinse your mouth before putting aligners back in. Never put aligners in over uncleaned teeth — food particles trapped under aligners accelerate decay.
Evening
Before bed, clean your aligners with your toothbrush and a small amount of clear antibacterial soap (not coloured soap, which can stain). Rinse thoroughly and brush your teeth before putting them in for the night.
Deep Cleaning (Weekly)
Once a week, soak your aligners in a specialist retainer cleaning solution or a diluted white vinegar solution (1 part vinegar: 3 parts water) for 20–30 minutes. This removes any buildup and keeps them odour-free. Rinse thoroughly after soaking.
What to Avoid
- Hot water: Heat warps the plastic. Always use cool or lukewarm water.
- Toothpaste: Most toothpastes are abrasive and will scratch aligners, making them cloudy.
- Coloured soaps or mouthwash: These can permanently discolour your aligners.
- Harsh chemicals: Bleach or alcohol-based cleaners can degrade the plastic.
- Leaving aligners exposed: Always store aligners in their case when not wearing them. Leaving them on a table risks bacteria, damage, or loss.
Storage Tips
Always carry your aligner case with you. When you eat at a restaurant, put your aligners in their case — never wrap them in a napkin (a very common way to accidentally throw them away!). Keep your case clean by washing it regularly with soap and water.
Handling Discomfort with New Aligners
Each new aligner set will feel tight for the first 1–3 days as your teeth begin to move. This is completely normal and is a sign the treatment is working. Use aligner chewies to help seat the aligners properly and reduce pressure points. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with discomfort in the first day or two.
Signs Your Aligners Need Attention
- Yellowing or cloudy appearance (improve cleaning routine)
- Persistent bad odour (deep clean or replace if near end of cycle)
- Cracks or chips (contact your doctor for a replacement)
- Not fitting properly (contact your doctor)
Following this care guide will keep your aligners crystal clear and your treatment on track. If you have any concerns, contact your GoClear-certified doctor directly.