When it comes to choosing orthodontic treatment, most patients prefer Invisalign because it’s a discreet and comfortable way to straighten your teeth. Although the clear aligners can usually go unnoticed by the public eye, that won’t be the case if you fail to take proper care of them. Your trays could have discoloration and bacteria buildup, leading to bad breath and other oral health problems. Luckily, there are many easy ways you can keep your aligners clean! Read along for a few tips.
Clean Your Aligners Thoroughly
Bacteria can accumulate on your Invisalign aligners throughout the day and while you sleep at night. To keep your mouth healthy, you must remove your trays and clean them thoroughly every morning and evening. Establish an oral hygiene routine and stay on top of it to prevent dental problems!
Soak Your Aligners At Least Once a Day
Aside from cleaning your aligners once a day, you should also soak them in denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals at least once a day. When they’re done soaking, use a toothbrush to scrub off any excess food, plaque, and other debris. Rinse them before putting them back in your mouth, and voila! It’s a sure-fire way to keep your trays looking and smelling their very best!
Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
Unless it’s plain water, you must always remove your clear aligners before eating or drinking anything. Consuming foods and drinks that are well-known for staining teeth (i.e., coffee, sofa, wine, chocolate, berries) can discolor your trays as well, so don’t forget to remove them! Otherwise, you risk damaging your aligners or losing the virtual invisibility of treatment.
Properly Store Your Aligners
Whenever you’re not wearing your aligners, make sure they’re properly stored away in their case. If you leave them out in the open, they’re exposed to more bacteria and have a higher chance of getting misplaced. You can prevent these issues by always carrying your aligner case with you!
Brush and Floss Your Teeth Before Putting Trays Back In
Before slipping the trays back in your mouth, make sure you clean your teeth and gums! It’s the best line of defense against dental problems and other complications down the road. If you neglect to brush and floss, food particles can get trapped against your teeth inside the aligners and lead to decay or cavities.
Plan Accordingly for Long Trips
Invisalign’s clear aligners use constant, gentle pressure to shift teeth into their ideal positions. That means a crucial part of treatment is advancing to the next tray cycle as instructed by your dentist, which is usually every few weeks. If you’re going on a lengthy trip, make sure you plan accordingly and bring your new set of trays with you. That way, there are no disruptions in your journey towards a straighter smile!
Taking good care of your clear aligners will help you get the most out of your treatment. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure a speedy and successful Invisalign experience!
About the Practice
At DP General Dentistry, we provide attentive, exceptional, comprehensive dental services guaranteed to meet your oral health needs and smile goals. Our team goes above and beyond to provide care that is bound to exceed even your highest expectations. If you recently started Invisalign in Hamden, we’ll be there every step of the way to make sure your teeth are on the right track towards your desired results. For more tips on maintaining your aligners, visit our website or call (203) 288-0951.
