Starting on your Invisalign journey is an exciting step toward achieving a straighter and more confident smile. One of the most significant advantages of Invisalign aligners is that they are removable, allowing you to enjoy your favourite foods and maintain your oral hygiene more effectively than traditional braces. However, you must take good care of your aligners and your teeth, to ensure you can achieve the best outcome possible from your treatment.
We often get asked about oral hygiene when it comes to wearing aligners, so we have written this blog to give you some essential tips for keeping your teeth & aligners in excellent condition.
Brush and Floss Before Reinserting Aligners
Unlike traditional braces, when it comes to eating, you can easily pop out your aligners and chow down on your favourite grub! But remember, before you reinsert your Invisalign aligners, make sure you give your teeth a good brush and floss. Food can become trapped in your teeth leaving your aligners to press against it, increasing the risk of any tooth decay or gum issues.
Clean Your Aligners Daily
Just as you brush your teeth daily, remember to clean your aligners regularly. It’s simple to do. Simply rinse them with lukewarm water each time you remove them to prevent the buildup of saliva and plaque. For a more thorough clean, use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently clean your aligners. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be abrasive and damage the aligners’ clear surface, which can make them cloudy and not as transparent as you’d like.
Use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals
Invisalign Cleaning Crystals are a specialised cleaning solution that may be recommended when you start your Invisalign journey. The cleaning crystals are designed to safely and effectively remove stains and bacteria from your aligners, helping them stay clear and odour-free.
Avoid Eating or Drinking with Aligners In
While Invisalign allows you to remove your aligners for meals, it’s crucial not to consume anything besides water while wearing them. Foods and beverages can stain or damage the aligners, affecting their appearance.
Store Aligners Safely When Not in Use
When you’re not wearing your aligners, store them in their protective case. This prevents accidental damage and ensures you won’t misplace them. Remember that aligners are only effective when they’re in your mouth, so proper storage is essential.
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups
You should continue to schedule and attend regular dental checkups during your Invisalign treatment. This way it’s easy to monitor your progress and provide guidance on maintaining your oral health. A professional cleaning appointment can also keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition.
Stay Committed to Your Treatment Plan
A long-term plan can often be hard to stick to. You can start well in the beginning, but as time goes on your routine may start to slide. But the only person this affects is you. Sticking to the recommended schedule for wearing your aligners is crucial for the success of your Invisalign treatment. You should be wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours to help you achieve your new smile efficiently.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is not only good for your overall health, but also helps keep your mouth moist and less prone to bacteria growth. Staying hydrated can also reduce the chances of developing bad breath while wearing aligners.
Ready To Keep Your Mouth Fresh and Aligners Clean?
By following these tips and maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices, you can enjoy a smooth and successful Invisalign journey. If you have any questions or you want to book a free Invisalign Consultation with Dr. Ayad, get in touch now. Your dream smile is well within reach with Invisalign!