8 Tips for Maintaining Invisalign Aligners for Optimal Results

Invisalign is a revolutionary solution for orthodontic problems like teeth misalignments, overcrowding, and large teeth gaps. Invisalign uses transparent, removable, custom-made aligners to align your smile, making it an excellent alternative to highly noticeable traditional braces. In this Invisalign maintenance guide, let’s discuss effective tips for maintaining Invisalign aligners for optimal results.

Caring for Your Invisalign Aligners: Dos and Don’ts

1. Cleaning your aligners

Excellent oral hygiene is vital for keeping your Invisalign aligners clean and clear. Not cleaning your aligners can encourage bacterial buildup, causing odors and yellowing and increasing your risk of oral infections.

Besides cleaning your aligners, cleaning your teeth, gums, and mouth helps keep them healthy, maximizing the effectiveness of your Invisalign treatment.

Proper oral hygiene practices to include in your daily routine include:

• Clean the Invisalign aligners daily. Use a soft brush and non-abrasive soap or an Invisalign cleaning kit. Do not use hot water, as it can cause your aligners to distort or warp, affecting their fit, comfort, and effectiveness.
• Aligner deep cleaning. About once a week, deep clean the aligners using a specialized Invisalign cleaning system to eliminate bacterial and plaque build-up.
• Brush your teeth twice daily. Use a soft-bristled brush (if possible electric) and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and mouth.
• Floss daily. Use a water flosser, floss threader, or interdental brush to floss between your teeth at least once daily.
• Use mouthwash. Rinse with an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash to promote fresher breath and reduce the risk of oral infections.
• Avoid abrasive dental products. Cleaning your aligners with a hard-bristled brush and abrasive toothpaste can cause them to scratch or look dull, reducing their transparency.

2. Wearing your aligners

Invisalign’s effectiveness relies on your compliance to wear the aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily. This means only removing your aligners for 2 to 4 hours when eating, brushing, flossing, cleaning, or during special occasions. Adhering to this schedule promotes faster teeth shifting, promoting quick results.

3. Remember to swap your aligners

Your dentist or orthodontist will give you a series of aligner trays to change every two weeks. Each aligner shifts your teeth closer to the desired positions and should be worn for about two weeks. Not changing the aligners as directed can delay or affect your results.

4. Store the aligners properly

When not wearing the aligners, store them in their protective case to prevent damage or dirt. Notify your dentist or orthodontist if your aligners get damaged or feel uncomfortable.

5. Eating with Invisalign

Eating with the Invisalign aligners can cause them to break, stain, or distort, greatly affecting their fit, appearance, and effectiveness. It can also lead to plaque buildup, bad breath, and increased gum disease and decay. To maintain your Invisalign aligners in excellent condition, remove your aligners when eating or drinking, apart from clear water.

Since your gums might feel sensitive or sore when wearing a new aligner, consider eating soft, non-spicy, and cool items to protect your gums and prevent further damage.

After eating or drinking, brush or rinse your mouth to remove food debris and plaque. Wearing your aligner without cleaning your mouth can encourage bacterial buildup, leading to bad breath, gum infections, and other complications.

6. Avoid smoking

Smoking during your Invisalign treatment can cause your aligner to lose its transparency, making you self-conscious about your smile. Similarly, smoking can increase your risk of gum disease, which can compromise your Invisalign treatment.

7. Regular follow-ups and check-ups

Regular check-ups and cleanings are crucial for a successful Invisalign treatment. These visits allow the dentist to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. The dentist also assesses your oral health for potential issues like gum disease and addresses them to prevent further problems. Your teeth and aligners are also cleaned to remove bacterial buildup, promote fresher breath, and maintain a healthier and brighter smile.

8. Avoid damaging habits

Common habits to avoid when using Invisalign include:

• Eating or chewing gum with your aligners
• Smoking with the aligners
• Not storing the Invisalign in their case
• Cleaning your aligners with a hard-bristled brush and harsh toothpaste or soap
• Cleaning your aligners with hot water
• Drinking colored or hot beverages with the aligners
• Wearing the aligners without cleaning your mouth first
• Not changing your aligners as directed
• Wearing your aligners less than 20 to 22 hours daily
• Exposing your aligners to direct sunlight

Are you interested in Invisalign in Concord, MA?

Are you considering Invisalign? Or would you like more tips on caring for and maintaining your Invisalign for optimal results? Contact Great Neck Dental Associates to book your consultation today.