Gone are the days of traditional braces being your only solution to align your teeth. Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that can quickly and discreetly straighten your smile. Each removable, clear, plastic tray is worn for a predetermined amount of time, gradually shifting your teeth. Although you will only wear each set for a short period, you need to care for them properly to assure the best results. Read on for five tips on how to maintain your clear aligners.
Clean Your Aligners Regularly
Regularly cleaning your Invisalign aligners can prevent them from developing an odor or looking cloudy. Bacteria can build up on the trays throughout the day and while you sleep during the night. Use a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to gently scrub them every morning and evening while brushing your teeth. Keeping them clean will ensure your mouth stays free from bacteria.
Soak Your Aligners Once a Day
On top of regularly scrubbing your aligners, you should also soak them at least once a day. Here’s what the process should look like:
- Drop denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals into a cup of lukewarm water
- Soak your trays for at least 15 minutes
- Once they’re done soaking, gently brush them with a toothbrush to remove any caked-on food or plaque
- Give them a quick rinse before slipping them back in your mouth
Remove Your Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
One of the benefits of Invisalign is there are no dietary restrictions. However, you must always remove them before eating or drinking anything that’s not water. Otherwise, you could accidentally damage or stain them, and food particles could get stuck in the aligners.
Store Your Aligners Properly When Not in Use
Whenever you’re not wearing your trays, you should always store them in their designated case. If you leave them lying around, they’re more likely to get lost or damaged. And since the aligners are essentially invisible, searching for them could be a stressful experience! To keep them safe, you should always have your case with you.
Brush and Floss Your Teeth Before Putting Your Trays Back In
Always make sure your mouth is clean before putting your trays back in! Brushing and flossing are critical to remove any food particles or bacteria. Otherwise, you risk trapping particles in your teeth or gums when slipping your aligners on, which can lead to dental issues like cavities, decay, and gingivitis.
As you can see, taking care of your Invisalign can be quite easy. By following these five tips, you can get the most out of your treatment and ensure the best alignment experience.
About the Practice
Our team at Byars Dental is proud to offer comprehensive dental care for the entire family. From preventive checkups to complex restorative services to orthodontic treatments – we can meet everyone’s needs at one convenient location. We offer Invisalign to help you discreetly achieve a straight, healthy smile. For more information on how to care for your aligners, visit our website or call (816) 781-8222.