Invisalign® clear aligners are a great orthodontic option for all ages because they are virtually invisible and very comfortable compared to traditional braces. Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, especially when you’re on a journey to a perfect smile with Invisalign®. These clear aligners offer a flexible and discreet way to straighten teeth. Still, you could face dental issues like plaque buildup or gum disease without proper care.
Your Jacksonville Orthodontist will advise that you wear your aligners for around 22 hours daily to be effective. This may leave you wondering how you clean your Invisalign aligners and maintain proper oral hygiene. The answer is simpler than you may think! Here’s how to ensure your oral health remains top-notch during your Invisalign® treatment.
Oral Hygiene While Wearing Clear Aligners
One of the best features of clear aligners is that you can easily remove the aligner trays when you need to eat or clean your teeth. However, suppose you want to eat popcorn, taffy, and other sticky foods. In that case, you’ll still need to maintain a good oral hygiene routine.
Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks
While clear aligners allow you to eat and drink whatever you like, it’s wise to avoid substances that can stain your teeth or aligners. Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits can discolor your aligners, making them more noticeable.
Brush and Floss After Every Meal
Food particles can get trapped under your aligners, leading to bacteria growth and bad breath. Brushing and flossing after each meal ensures your teeth are clean before popping your aligners back in. If brushing isn’t possible immediately, rinse your mouth with water.
Keep Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water keeps you hydrated and helps wash away food particles and bacteria. It’s a simple yet effective way to maintain oral hygiene.
Maintain Regular Dental Checkups
Your routine dental checkups are more important than ever during your orthodontic treatment. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your progress and address any oral hygiene issues that may arise.
Clean Your Aligners Regularly
Your aligners are virtually invisible. Keeping them clean is critical. Rinse them every time you remove them to wash away saliva and plaque. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, unscented soap to brush them gently. Avoid hot water, as it can distort the plastic.
How to Clean Invisalign® Clear Aligner Trays
Just as you clean your teeth and mouth daily, you must clean your aligner trays daily.
- Soak Your Clear Aligners: Soaking your aligners in lukewarm water or Invisalign® cleaning crystals can help keep them fresh. Do this daily to maintain aligner hygiene.
- Brush Them: Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove debris or buildup.
- Clean Away Hard Buildup: If you notice any hard buildup on your aligners, try soaking them in a mix of distilled white vinegar and lukewarm water for about 15 minutes. Dilute 1 part of vinegar with 1 part of water and let the aligners sit in the solution.
- Thoroughly Rinse: Afterward, rinse your clear aligners thoroughly with water to ensure no cleaning substance is left.
- Proper Storage: When you’re not wearing your Invisalign® aligners, store them properly. Protect them with the provided case or a clean container.
Invisalign® in Jacksonville
Invisalign® offers a convenient and effective way to achieve your dream smile. Still, it requires a commitment to good oral hygiene practices. By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of Invisalign® while keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Remember, a beautiful smile starts with good oral health.
Are you ready for straighter teeth? Schedule a consult with our Jacksonville Orthodontist and see how Invisalign® aligner trays can improve your smile.