Straighten your teeth with Invisalign without the hassle and angst of traditional braces. They are clear, removable, and comfortable enough to be popular among persons looking at straightening up their smiles. There is, however, a need for proper care so that they may appear to keep on working effectively and hygienically. If you are looking for a dentist near you to start with Invisalign, it’s also essential to know how to take care of them. These are some tips for keeping your aligners clean and in top shape throughout your treatment.
1. Maintain Regular Aligner Cleaning
How often should you clean Invisalign aligners? This is one of the most frequent questions that patients ask. In a nutshell, each time you clean your teeth. Ideally, this should be done twice a day, ideally once in the morning and once at night. It is during such cleaning that it will prevent bacterial buildup, discoloration, and bad odor.
Tips for maintaining Invisalign clear aligners:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, along with clear, unscented antibacterial soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals.
- Avoid using toothpaste as it might be too harsh and cause scratches.
- Rinse with lukewarm water, but avoid using hot water as it will warp the plastic.
- Soak them in Invisalign cleaning solution or a combination of water and vinegar once weekly for a more thorough clean.
2. Always Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
The aligners can be removed like traditional braces, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods, but you have to take them off before eating or drinking anything except water. This is because food particles and beverages can stain or damage the aligners, making them more visible and less effective.
What to Avoid:
- Coffee, tea, and wine (they can cause staining)
- Sugary and acidic drinks (they can promote plaque buildup)
- Chewing gum (it can stick to the aligners and distort them)
3. Rinse Your Aligners Every Time You Take Them Out
Every time you take out your aligners, develop the habit of rinsing them under lukewarm running water. This will help flush away the saliva and plaque that might have accumulated on your aligners, leaving them fresh and free from bacteria.
4. Brush and Floss Before Putting Your Aligners Back In
Maintaining good oral hygiene is just as important as keeping your aligners clean. Before reinserting your aligners, always brush and floss your teeth. This prevents food particles from getting trapped between your teeth and the aligners, reducing the risk of cavities and bad breath.
5. Store Your Aligners in Their Case
When you’re not wearing your aligners, store them in their protective case. This prevents accidental loss, damage, or exposure to bacteria. Never wrap them in a napkin or leave them exposed on a table, as they can easily get misplaced or contaminated.
6. Avoid Using Harsh Cleaning Agents
Many people believe that by using stronger cleaning agents such as bleach or mouthwash, they can get extra cleanliness of their aligners. Bleach and mouthwash may cause color change and weaken the plastic material, therefore, reducing effectiveness. In fact, mild soaps or Invisalign recommended cleaning solutions are safer.
7. Wear Your Aligners as Directed
For your Invisalign treatment to be a success, you have to wear your aligners for a minimum of 20-22 hours per day. Only remove them for eating, drinking, or when you are cleaning them. If you fail to use them as indicated, it will prolong your treatment and results.
8. Your Aligners must be replaced on schedule
Your Invisalign treatment plan will include a schedule for switching to a new set of aligners. Be sure to follow this schedule closely. Wearing the same aligners for too long can reduce their effectiveness, while switching too soon can cause discomfort and delay progress.
Keep Your Aligners in Top Shape
Taking care of your Invisalign aligners is simple if you follow these easy tips. By cleaning them regularly, storing them properly, and maintaining good oral hygiene, you’ll ensure that your treatment stays on track and delivers the best possible results. If you’re considering Invisalign in NE Calgary, our team at Sunridge Landing Dental Care is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward a beautiful, confident smile!