7 Simple Tips to Help You Maintain Your Invisalign Clear Aligners

Apr 26, 2023 | Dental Information, Oral Health Care

Invisalign is an effective treatment that will provide you with a beautiful and straighter smile. The clear aligners included in this treatment will straighten teeth discreetly, and you will be proud to show off your new smile once the treatment is complete. 

In order for this treatment to be effective, you must maintain your Invisalign clear aligners, and the following tips will prevent you from experiencing dental issues during your Invisalign treatment:

Always Remove Your Trays Before Eating

If you do not remove your trays, the food and beverages you consume will damage and stain your aligners, as food particles will get stuck in your trays. When particles cling to your aligners, they will transfer to your teeth and gums and will eventually provide the bacteria that create plaque. Removing your clear aligners before you eat will prevent you from having to deal with plaque and tartar, which can lead to gum disease.

Clean Your Trays Thoroughly

You will need to clean your trays every time you remove them, and rinsing and soaking them in water is not enough as this will not prevent bacteria from building. Invisalign cleaning crystals or clear soap will help prevent foul-smelling bacteria from sticking to your aligners. Do not use hot water to disinfect your trays, as aligners are made of a thermoplastic material that can bend in hot water. Cold water is also problematic, as it can cause your aligners to contract. The use of room-temperature water is a must. 

Keep the Trays

Never place your aligners on a napkin or on your countertop, and always place them in a case. This will prevent you from accidentally throwing them out. Additionally, a case will also protect your trays from bacteria and possible damage.

Floss and Brush

You need to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine throughout Invisalign treatment. Food particles will get stuck between your teeth, and wearing your trays without brushing your teeth will prevent your saliva from washing these particles away. This will cause bacteria and plaque to build up, and oral diseases can develop as a result. It is a must that you brush and floss after meals, and only then should you put your trays back in your mouth. This will keep your teeth clean and your aligners clear.

Stick to a Schedule

Cleaning your aligners must be part of your routine, and you need to make this a habit! Missing a cleaning is a big deal because bacteria will have the opportunity to build up against your teeth.

Don’t Make Basic Mistakes

Never use cleaning solutions with harsh ingredients, and do not soak your aligner in mouthwash. Never rinse your trays in hot or cold water, and do not leave your aligner sitting out. 

Don’t Forget to Soak Your Aligner!

This step will not only disinfect your aligner from E.coli, staph and strep, but it will also prevent stains, odour, plaque and debris.

Conclusion

Ready to straighten your teeth and improve the look of your smile? Slipacoff Dental can further discuss the many benefits of Invisalign treatment and why this may be the best solution for your teeth. Our team will tell you how to care for your aligners properly, and we will provide you with a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!