The Invisalign system is a set of clear aligners that can be used to straighten teeth and improve your bite. Discreet and easy to use, these comfortable clear aligners can transform your smile, but it’s also important to ensure you take proper care of them. Our dentists at Rangel Dental share some easy tips to keep your Invisalign appliances in great shape.
Clean Your Aligners Daily
Cleaning your Invisalign trays when you brush your teeth in the morning and at night is an easy way to make it part of your normal routine. Using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently scrub them will get rid of residue and bacteria that cause decay.
Do not use soap, denture cleaner, or mouthwash to clean your aligners, as it can make them look dull and more conspicuous when you wear them. Soaking them in a 50/50 solution of hydrogen peroxide and water for 20 minutes will also clean them and remove stains. Invisalign offers several different types of cleaning products in their online store if you prefer to soak your aligners in a specialized cleaning solution.
Take Out Your Aligners When You Eat
Water is the only thing you should consume while wearing your aligners. Colorful food and drinks like tomato sauce, cola, tea, and other foods can stain them, and the last thing you want is to damage your aligners by biting down on something hard or sticky when wearing them. Hot drinks may warp the trays so that they don’t fit correctly, which can result in extended treatment time. In addition, food particles can become lodged underneath your aligners, which is bad for your teeth.
Always Brush Your Teeth Before Putting Them Back In
Keep a toothbrush and toothpaste with you to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in after eating. Having food debris and plaque stuck under your aligners can be harmful to your oral health and cause cavities or gum disease. Brushing your teeth every time you put them in can help keep your mouth and aligners clean.
Rinse Your Aligners When You Remove Them
When you remove your aligners to eat or do other activities, make sure to rinse them before placing them in their case. It’s important to do this even if you’re not at home – saliva and plaque that build up on them throughout the day can be a breeding ground for bacteria that cause a foul smell. Simply rinse them at a sink or water fountain, put them in their case, and you’re good to go eat, take photos, or do whatever you need to do before putting them back in.
Store Invisalign Aligners In Their Case
Making a habit of putting your aligners in their case every time you remove them can help you avoid losing or damaging them. It’s easy to set them down on the table and forget about them or accidentally throw them out if you don’t put them in the case right away. Putting them in their case keeps them safe and easy to carry with you. If you lose your aligners, make sure to contact your dentist right away to find out the best course of action to stay on track with your treatment.
Contact Us To Learn More About Invisalign
To learn more about Invisalign and the other dental services we offer, contact us online or call 973-292-0001 to schedule an appointment. At Rangel Dental, we care about our patients and are committed to serving your needs in a welcoming, comfortable environment.