Caring for Invisalign Aligners
December 13, 2024 9:00 amIf you’ve started your Invisalign journey, congratulations! You’re on your way to a straighter smile without the hassle of traditional braces. Invisalign aligners are clear, convenient, and removable, but caring for them is crucial to ensure your treatment goes smoothly and stays on track. Here are some tips to keep your aligners—and your smile—in top shape.
- Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water whenever you remove them.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, gentle soap to clean them daily—avoid toothpaste, as it can scratch the plastic.
- Consider Invisalign cleaning crystals or other aligner-specific products for a deeper clean.
1. Clean Your Aligners Daily
Invisalign aligners sit snugly against your teeth, which means they can easily trap bacteria and food particles if not cleaned properly. To avoid discoloration, bad breath, or plaque buildup:
2. Remove Aligners Before Eating or Drinking
Invisalign aligners are not designed to withstand the pressure or staining caused by eating and drinking. Remove them before meals and snacks to avoid damaging or discoloring the plastic. The only exception? Water! Stay hydrated, but skip the coffee, tea, or sodas while wearing your aligners.
3. Store Them Safely
When your aligners aren’t in your mouth, always store them in their protective case. This prevents them from being lost, damaged, or exposed to bacteria. Never wrap them in a napkin (we promise you’ll forget them there!).
4. Keep Up With Your Oral Hygiene
Brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in after meals. This helps prevent food particles and bacteria from being trapped under the aligners, which can lead to cavities or bad breath.
5. Wear Your Aligners as Directed
For Invisalign to work effectively, you must wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Stick to your schedule for switching trays as instructed by your dentist to keep your treatment on track.
Straighter Smiles Start at Walnut Ranch Dental Spa in Ardmore, OK
Caring for your Invisalign aligners is simple with a little daily effort—and the results are worth it. At Walnut Ranch Dental Spa, Dr. Joe Treanor is dedicated to helping patients achieve their dream smiles with personalized Invisalign care. If you have questions about aligner care or want to explore whether Invisalign is right for you, visit our office in Ardmore, OK, today. Let’s work together to give you a healthy, confident smile!
Categorised in: Invisalign Aligners