Patient Instructions for Use

Indications for Use – Aligners (further referred to as appliance)

The VAKT Orthodontic Aligners are indicated for use in the alignment of permanent teeth through orthodontic treatment of misalignment and malocclusion.

Indications for Use – Retainers (further referred to as appliance)

The VAKT Orthodontic Retainers are indicated for use in maintaining the alignment of permanent teeth.

Warnings and Precautions

  • VAKT Orthodontic appliances should not be used by persons with known allergies to plastics.
  • Avoid chewing gum and hot liquids while wearing appliances.
  • Avoid using hot water to clean appliances as they will disfigure.
  • Do not use denture cleaners to clean appliances or soak in mouthwash. These can damage the surface of the Aligner causing them to become dull and more visible.

Appliance Use and Care

  1. To ensure proper use and avoid damaging your Aligners, always…
  2. Wear your VAKT Aligners per your doctor’s instructions, usually 20-22 hours per day.
  3. Wear your VAKT Retainers per your doctor’s instructions, usually 6-8 hours per day, typically while sleeping.
  4. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling your appliances.
  5. Only handle one appliance at a time.
  6. Rinse your appliances with water when removing them from the packaging.

Aligner Insertion

  • Make sure you have the proper Aligner—the upper for your top teeth and the lower for your bottom teeth.
  • To help avoid confusion, each Aligner package contains a “U” for upper and an “L” for lower, followed by the stage number.
  • When inserting each Aligner, gently push the Aligners over your front teeth. Then apply equal pressure, using your fingertips, to the tops of your left and right molars until the Aligner snaps into place.
  • Do not bite your Aligners into position. This may damage them. Note: If you experience sharp pain or significant discomfort, discontinue use of the Aligners and contact your doctor.

Aligner Removal

  1. Use your fingertip on the outside of your back molar to slowly pull the Aligner from your molars. Make sure to only do one side at a time.
  2. Repeat this process on the other side of your mouth before trying to completely remove the Aligner.
  3. Once Aligner is removed from the molars, you should be able to slowly work your way forward gently prying the Aligner away from your teeth with your fingertips.

Aligner Daily Care and Maintenance

  1. Clean your Aligners prior to each insertion. Use a soft bristle toothbrush with water and a small amount of toothpaste. Note: Be sure to rinse each Aligner thoroughly with water after each cleaning.
  2. Do not use denture cleaners to clean Aligners. Do not soak them in mouthwash. These products can damage the surface of the Aligner, causing it to become dull and more visible.

Proper Oral Hygiene

  1. Remove your Aligners for eating and drinking. (You do not need to remove your Aligners to drink water.)
  2. Brush and floss your teeth after each meal or snack prior to re-inserting your Aligners. If this is not possible, you can simply rinse your mouth, and then clean your Aligners by holding them under warm running water. Be sure to clean your Aligners at your earliest convenience.
  3. If you have any questions regarding hygiene techniques, please consult your doctor.
  4. Make sure you are meeting with your doctor per their treatment check-up plan.

Aligner Storage

Always store your Aligners in a case when they are not in your mouth.

Note: Keep all of your old Aligners in a clean plastic bag, or as instructed by your doctor. Keep them out of reach of small children and pets.

Note:

  • Immediately rinse Aligner with water, shake off excess water, and store your Aligners in the protective case provided.
  • To help prevent damage to the Aligners, avoid unnecessary removal.
  • Do not use excessive force to bend or twist an Aligner to get it off.
  • Do not use sharp objects to remove your Aligners.
  • Consult with your doctor if your Aligners are extremely difficult to remove.