What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a common orthodontic treatment option that has become increasingly popular recently. Essentially, Invisalign aligners are custom-made, clear trays designed to gradually shift your teeth into the right position. They are usually worn for 20-22 hours per day, and treatment can last from a few months to a few years, depending on the individual patient’s needs.
One of the benefits of choosing Invisalign is that the aligners are easy to clean with Invisalign Clean. This specialized cleaning solution helps remove any build-up on the trays. It’s also important to note that dental cleaning is still important while undergoing Invisalign treatment to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy. Overall, Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces for those who want a more discreet orthodontic solution.
What are some tips for keeping my Invisalign clean?
What are some tips for keeping my Invisalign clean?If you’re looking for a discreet way to improve your smile, Invisalign is always a great option. But like any other dental appliance, proper care of your Invisalign is important in how long it will last and remain effective—and even affects your overall oral health when worn over time.
Today, we want to highlight the importance of ensuring you take good care of your Invisalign so that it works optimally during treatment! Read on to find out more about how to keep your clear braces clean and maintain their good condition while being used.
Brush Your Aligners Thoroughly
To ensure the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment, it is important to prioritize your oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth multiple times daily and flossing at least once are essential in maintaining your aligners. However, it’s not just enough to brush your teeth and floss. It’s also important to clean your aligners thoroughly.
One tip is to brush your teeth after every meal before reapplying Invisalign. This helps eliminate lingering food particles and prevents bacteria buildup in your aligners.
Floss your teeth and rinse your mouth with water before putting your Invisalign back on. Following these simple steps, you can keep your aligners looking and feeling fresh while maintaining good oral hygiene.
Clean Your Invisalign Regularly
Clean your Invisalign daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water to prevent plaque and food debris accumulation. Giving your Invisalign a thorough rinse should be a part of your daily routine, followed by a gentle cleaning with the toothbrush.
For more comprehensive cleaning, soak the Invisalign in a dentist-approved solution, as this helps remove any stubborn buildup. Incorporating regular Invisalign cleaning into your dental cleaning regimen ensures a healthy smile and a long-lasting Invisalign treatment.
Avoid Eating or Drinking While Wearing Invisalign
One of the most important things to remember is to avoid eating or drinking anything while wearing them. Doing so can lead to food particles getting stuck between your teeth and causing decay over time. This can also lead to staining, which we want to avoid.
Removing your Invisalign while eating and following up with a thorough dental cleaning can ensure your teeth remain healthy and clean. You can drink water, but it’s best to avoid acidic, sugary, or colored beverages when wearing Invisalign.
Store Your Aligners in a Case
Protecting your Invisalign aligners from bacteria should be a top priority when implementing an oral care routine. Proper storage of your Invisalign is crucial in preventing damage and protecting it from harmful bacteria buildup.
Never place your aligners on tissues or napkins, as they attract unwanted bacteria. A clean, disinfected Invisalign case is an excellent storage option that can keep your aligners safe while not in use. Regular cleaning and disinfecting of your case with a mild solution or denture cleaner can help keep your aligners clean and prevent the formation of harmful bacteria. By prioritizing Invisalign’s clean and proper storage of its case, you can go a long way in maintaining good oral health.
Schedule Regular Dentist Appointments
One of the best ways to care for oral health and aligners is to schedule regular dental check-ups. Not only does it allow your dentist to evaluate the progress of your treatment, but it also gives them a chance to make any necessary adjustments to your Invisalign aligners. You can ensure that your Invisalign aligners remain clean and in good condition by keeping up with regular dental visits.
And let’s not forget about dental cleaning – it’s a great way to keep your teeth healthy, and your dentist can help you with tips and best practices for Invisalign cleaning. With regular dental check-ups, you’ll not only achieve a beautiful smile, but you’ll also maintain good oral health in the long run.
Are there any cleaning products I should avoid using on my Invisalign aligners?
Are there any cleaning products I should avoid using on my Invisalign aligners?Avoid using hot water
Hot water can damage the plastic of your aligners and cause them to warp. Stick to using lukewarm water instead.
Avoid using harsh cleaning products
Harsh cleaning products can damage the plastic of your aligners. Stick to using gentle, natural cleaning products instead.
Avoid using abrasive materials
Abrasive materials can scratch the plastic of your aligners. Stick to using soft, non-abrasive materials instead.
Avoid using alcohol-based products
Alcohol-based products can dry out the plastic of your aligners and cause them to become brittle. Stick to using water-based products instead.
Avoid using scented products
Scented products can leave behind a residue that can attract bacteria. Stick to using unscented products instead.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you have just gotten Invisalign braces in hopes of having that perfect smile in the future, then it’s important to take care of them. Whether they are on your teeth or off, properly cleaning and maintaining them is key to their longevity.
Follow the steps mentioned above, like proper oral hygiene and avoiding eating or drinking while wearing Invisalign, and watch for any signs of wear and tear. Schedule regular dental check-ups so your dentist can update you on wearing and tearing and how your teeth are progressing.
Ultimately, though, it is vital to prioritize the maintenance of your Invisalign braces if you want a new smile after treatment. Heed these tips and hints for keeping your Invisalign clean and effective so you can enjoy your straight white smile hassle-free!
Dr. Steven Davidowitz, also known as “Dr. D” by his patients, is one of the Upper East Side of NYC Manhattan’s leading cosmetic dentists that specialize in designing and maintaining beautiful smiles.
