Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional metal braces that realigns a patient’s teeth using a personalized sequence of clear aligners. Each of these devices is designed to shift the teeth closer to their ideal positions, and they are virtually invisible when worn while requiring no dietary restrictions. However, you’ll still need to maintain good oral habits and practice excellent hygiene to keep your treatment on track. Here’s a quick overview of a few excellent Invisalign habits as well as a few that can lead to costly treatment delays.
How Can I Keep My Invisalign Treatment On-Track?
A few excellent tips for keeping your aligners in great shape and your realignment process complication-free include:
- Rinse your aligners before putting them back in your mouth to prevent accumulations of stain- and odor-causing plaque and food debris.
- Thoroughly brush and floss your teeth before wearing your aligners. This will prevent them from protecting harmful germs and food residues from the mouth’s natural cleaning process.
- Clean each surface of your aligners with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste at least once a day.
- Soak your aligners once a day in Invisalign cleaning crystals or an approved denture cleaner. Rinse them thoroughly afterward to prevent cleaning agents from being placed in the mouth.
What Should I Not Do During Invisalign Treatment?
Invisalign aligners are not invincible and can be destroyed if they are not cared for properly. Keep the following tips in mind:
- Don’t use unapproved chemicals to clean them. Using harsh cleaning agents like bleach can warp your aligners or possibly dissolve them altogether.
- Don’t eat or drink anything but water while wearing your aligners. Chewing can damage your Invisalign trays, and food particles or sugary residues that become trapped beneath them can cause dental infections or discoloration.
- Don’t leave your Invisalign aligners unprotected. When not wearing your appliances, store them in a clean, sturdy container to prevent them from being damaged or thrown away.
- Don’t expose your aligners to hot or cold water since they can be warped by extreme temperatures. Use room temperature water for cleaning or drinking while wearing Invisalign.
Invisalign can be a comfortable, convenient, and effective way to realign your smile. By adhering to your dentist’s treatment instructions, you can help your straightening process go smoothly and achieve the best possible results.
About the Practice
Gale Ranch Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics offers excellent oral healthcare to children in San Ramon. Led by Drs. Margaret Santiago, Esther Chung, Amy Brandon, and Julie Kim, the staff ensures that each patient receives the best care possible in a warm and welcoming environment. Areas of expertise include pediatric dentistry as well as orthodontic treatments like Invisalign. To learn more about keeping the Invisalign process complication-free, contact the office online or dial (925) 648-8580.