May 26, 2023
One wonderful thing about living in today’s world is that you don’t have to settle for a smile that’s less than perfect. If you’re tired of dealing with crooked teeth, you no longer have to wear uncomfortable, awkward metal braces to straighten them. Instead, you can choose a system of clear plastic aligner trays called Invisalign. However, if you don’t keep up with a routine of cleaning Invisalign in Winslow, the aligners can become discolored and noticeable. Here are six simple tips for keeping your aligners in good condition – and practically invisible!
Soak Your Aligners Every Day
At least once per day, soak your trays in Invisalign cleaning crystals, which you can purchase online or at some drugstores. This prevents food debris and plaque from hardening and creating stains. Just remember to rinse off the aligners before you place them back in your mouth.
Remove Your Aligners Before You Eat
If you’re wearing the aligners, the only thing you should be eating or drinking is water. You should take out the aligners if you want to consume anything else. Not only were the trays not designed to withstand the pressures of chewing, but food particles could get stuck on them, increasing your risk of cavities and discoloration.
Rinse Your Aligners When You Take Them Out
Whenever you take out your aligners to eat, drink, or clean your teeth, rinse them off to remove bacteria and other harmful particles. Keep in mind that you should only use lukewarm or cool water, as hot water could warp the shape of the plastic.
Brush Your Teeth Before Putting the Aligners Back In
Always brush and floss between eating and putting your trays back in your mouth. Otherwise, bits of food could get trapped against your teeth, attracting bacteria that cause discoloration, bad breath, cavities, and more. If you can’t clean your teeth, at least swish some water around in your mouth.
Clean Your Aligners Each Morning
Bacteria can accumulate in your mouth overnight, so you should brush the aligners – and your teeth – first thing in the morning. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (NOT the same one you use to brush your teeth) and an antibacterial hand soap to gently scrub your aligners clean.
Choose the Right Soap
When caring for Invisalign in Winslow, you should avoid using scented or colored soaps. They leave behind a residue that can contribute to discoloration. Instead, use a clear, unscented hand soap.
Invisalign is a great solution for straightening your teeth, but it does require some maintenance. If you follow the steps listed above, though, your treatment should be a breeze!
About the Author
Dr. Richard Baker has more than 40 years of experience as a dentist. He achieved his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1977 from Case Western Reserve University. Since then, he has been dedicated to staying up to date with the latest techniques in dentistry through continuing education. One of his primary areas of interest is orthodontics with clear aligners, so he understands the importance of caring for Invisalign in Winslow. You can learn more about Invisalign by visiting Dr. Baker’s practice, Dental Innovations, online or by calling (928) 833-6168.