Invisalign aligners have become a popular alternative to traditional braces for teeth straightening. These clear, removable aligners are popular due to their nearly invisible nature. However, they also require special care to ensure they stay clean and effective. Proper care of Invisalign aligners is crucial to maintain good oral health during treatment.
Clean Your Aligners Regularly
One of the most important aspects of caring for your Invisalign aligners is to clean them regularly. It is recommended to clean your aligners every day to prevent the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and stains. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush to prevent scratches. Additionally, it is best to use a clear, unscented antibacterial soap to clean your aligners. Gently brush the aligners, rinse them with cool water, and dry them with a soft cloth.
Avoid Hot Water
It is essential to avoid using hot water when cleaning your Invisalign aligners. Hot water can cause the aligners to warp or lose their shape. Unfortunately, this can affect their ability to straighten your teeth. This is because the shape can change, or the aligners will no longer fit on your teeth.
Avoid Using Toothpaste
The product you choose to clean your aligners is important. If you choose the wrong one, you could cause more damage to your aligners rather than cleaning them. Toothpaste is abrasive and can scratch or damage the surface of the aligners. Instead, use clear antibacterial soap to clean your aligners. In fact, soap is unlikely to contain abrasive particles that will harm your aligners.
Keep Your Aligners in Their Case
When not wearing your aligners, it is important to keep them in their case. The case will protect your aligners from damage and prevent them from becoming lost or accidentally thrown away. Always carry your case with you so that you can safely store your aligners while eating or drinking.
Avoid Eating or Drinking with Your Aligners
Eating or drinking while wearing your aligners can damage them and cause staining. It is important to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. This will also prevent food particles from getting trapped in your aligners and causing bacteria buildup. When bacteria build in your mouth, it increases your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
Brush and Floss Your Teeth
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign aligners. An additional step you should consider is to brush and floss your teeth before replacing your aligners. This can help prevent food particles and bacteria from becoming trapped between your teeth and the aligners.
Rinse Your Aligners with Water
Before putting your aligners back in, rinse them with cool water to remove any bacteria or debris that may have accumulated while they were out of your mouth. This can prevent plaque and food particles from irritating your gums, causing gingivitis. In addition, rinsing your aligners can help minimize bad breath.