Invisalign has become a popular choice for orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet and flexible alternative to traditional metal braces. However, wearing clear aligners doesn’t mean you can ease up on oral hygiene. In fact, maintaining excellent dental care is even more critical during Invisalign treatment to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. The good news is that with a few mindful habits, you can keep your smile both straight and healthy.
The Importance of Oral Hygiene with Aligners
Invisalign trays sit snugly over your teeth for the majority of the day, usually around 20 to 22 hours. While this helps align your teeth efficiently, it also creates an environment where bacteria and food particles can get trapped. Unlike braces, which allow your saliva to interact freely with your teeth and gums, Invisalign trays form a barrier. Without proper cleaning, this can quickly lead to plaque buildup, enamel erosion, and gum inflammation. Maintaining oral hygiene is essential not only for your health but also for the success of your Invisalign treatment. Dirty aligners and unclean teeth can lead to staining, odors, and even extend the treatment duration if complications arise.
Brushing and Flossing More Frequently
Brushing twice a day may have worked before, but Invisalign wearers typically need to brush after every meal or snack. This better ensures that no food debris or sugar is trapped inside the aligners when they’re put back in. Carrying a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste can be a lifesaver when you’re away from home. Flossing daily is also essential, as aligners can trap particles between teeth and contribute to decay if those particles aren’t removed. Using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can offer extra protection, especially at night. This helps in eliminating bacteria that brushing and flossing might miss, while also strengthening your enamel.
Keeping Your Aligners Clean
Your aligners need just as much attention as your teeth. Rinsing them with water alone isn’t enough. Ideally, you should clean them every time you brush your teeth. Use a clear, unscented soap or a cleaning solution specifically designed for Invisalign trays. Avoid using toothpaste on the aligners, as its abrasiveness can scratch the plastic and create places for bacteria to hide.
You should also rinse your aligners whenever you remove them to prevent saliva and plaque buildup. Soaking them daily in a cleaning solution can keep them fresh and clear. This is especially important for those trying to maintain the invisible aesthetic that makes Invisalign so appealing.
Mindful Eating and Drinking Habits
One of the major benefits of Invisalign is the ability to remove the trays while eating. This should always be done, as eating with the aligners in can damage them and trap food particles against your teeth. Once you’ve eaten, rinse your mouth or brush before reinserting the trays. Drinking water is fine with aligners in. However, avoid colored or sugary beverages like coffee, tea, or soda until you remove your trays.
Minimizing your intake of sugary snacks and acidic foods can also go a long way in protecting your teeth during treatment. Invisalign treatment often makes you more aware of your eating habits. This can be a great time to adopt healthier choices that benefit your oral health in the long term.
Regular Dental Checkups and Communication
It’s easy to get caught up in aligner trays and forget about the basics. Regular dental checkups are crucial throughout your treatment. Your dentist can identify potential issues early on and give your teeth the professional cleaning they need. These visits complement your orthodontic appointments and help ensure a smooth journey to a better smile. If you notice anything unusual, like persistent bad breath, discomfort, or white spots on your teeth, bring it up immediately. These could be early signs of oral hygiene issues that need to be addressed.
Invisalign Treatment in Lexington, KY
At Complete Dentistry of All Ages, we believe everyone has the right to a healthy and straight smile. If you suffer from crooked teeth or other malocclusion concerns, Invisalign treatment may be able to help. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.