Invisalign clear aligners are one of the most popular orthodontic solutions for teens and adults alike due to their convenience, comfort, and discretion. However, in order to get the most out of your treatment, it’s important to properly maintain your trays throughout your journey. Read on to learn five do’s and don’ts for taking care of your Invisalign aligners.
Do: Clean Your Aligners Every Day
Your aligners will be in your mouth for between 20 and 22 hours a day. With bacteria being naturally present in your mouth and due to the smell of saliva, you’ll want to clean your trays every day. You can do so using cool water, a soft bristled toothbrush, and clear hand soap. Or, if you have access to special Invisalign cleaning crystals, you can also use those! Cleaning them daily will also keep them from becoming discolored.
Don’t: Use Hot Water to Clean Your Aligners
Your aligners are made from a special plastic material that’s designed just for you. Unfortunately, this also means that it doesn’t take much to warp them, which can set back your treatment timeline by requiring you to order a replacement tray. To keep this from happening, be sure to never use hot or warm water to clean your trays.
Do: Take Your Aligners Out Before Drinking & Eating
There are a couple of reasons why you should never eat or drink anything besides water with your trays in your mouth. Chewing food could affect the fit of your trays or even damage them, which could set back your treatment. Additionally, drinking beverages could cause your aligners to discolor or put you at a higher risk of cavities if the drink is sugary.
Don’t: Forget to Put Your Trays Back in Their Case
Think of the protective case that you get with your Invisalign aligners as their home. Whenever they aren’t in your mouth, they should always be stored here. If they aren’t, you could be risking them becoming lost or damaged, and it’s also unhygienic for them to be exposed to particles in the air! By getting in the habit of storing them in their case, you can feel confident knowing you’ll always know where to find them.
Do: Brush & Floss Before Putting Your Aligners Back In
Every time before you put your aligners back in your mouth, you should brush and floss your teeth to prevent food debris from becoming lodged between your trays and teeth, increasing your chances of oral health issues. This will also keep your aligners smelling and feeling fresh!
About the Author
Dr. Rafiq Hirji has over 10 years of experience practicing dentistry, as well as additional training in orthodontic treatment. With a focus on providing high-quality dentistry for patients of all ages, Dr. Hirji is proud to offer image-conscious teens and adults Invisalign treatment, an excellent alternative to metal braces. To learn more about this service or learn whether you’re a candidate, schedule a consultation today by visiting Daily Smiles MacArthur Dental & Orthodontics’ website or call 972-546-4114.