Thanks to Invisalign, it’s possible to achieve a straighter smile without having to rely on noticeable, uncomfortable metal brackets and wires. That being said, you do need to be diligent about protecting your aligners in order to make sure your treatment stays on track. Below are some dos and do nots that you should always keep in mind when it comes to Invisalign.
Do Make a Point of Cleaning Your Aligners Daily
Your Invisalign aligners will regularly be exposed to bacteria and food particles as a consequence of spending most of the day in your mouth. As such, you need to take the time to clean them every day. This means brushing them thoroughly with a soft toothbrush as well as soaking them in a special cleaning solution. Your goal should be to remove any plaque or other unwanted substances that have built up on your aligners during the day.
Do Not Use Scented or Colored Cleaners on Your Aligners
You need to make sure you’re using the right tools for the job when it comes to cleaning your Invisalign aligners. Stay away from any colored cleaning solutions; otherwise, your aligners could become discolored, making them much less discreet. Scented soaps are also generally a bad idea, as they can potentially weaken your aligners.
Do Brush and Floss Before You Put Your Aligners Back In
You will take your aligners out whenever it’s time to eat something. Before you put them back in, though, you should first take the time to brush and floss your teeth. Otherwise, the food particles from your recent meal or snack could get trapped under your aligners, thus increasing your risk for decay or infection. Get in the habit of carrying toothpaste, dental floss, and a toothbrush with you so that you are always prepared to clean your smile before wearing your aligners again.
Do Not Leave Your Trays Lying Around Without Their Case
Whenever you take your aligners out, you should store them in their protective case. If you simply leave them out in the open, they will be vulnerable to bacteria or other harmful organisms. On top of that, you could end up losing them by accident. In short, it’s best to always make sure that your aligners are stored properly.
Your orthodontist is likely to have further advice regarding what you should and shouldn’t do during a treatment involving clear aligners. Feel free to reach out to them if you have any questions, and take their advice to heart; it’s important to do everything you can to make sure that the Invisalign process is a success.
About the Author
Dr. Marissa Mikolich went to The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, and she eventually earned a master of science degree in oral biology at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. As an orthodontist, she loves being able to help her patients straighten their smiles with Invisalign as well as traditional braces. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Mikolich at Mikolich Orthodontics in Canfield, visit her website or call (330) 967-4110.