Not everyone was born with the perfectly straight teeth that they dream of now. However, being unhappy with the appearance or functionality of your smile doesn’t need to be perfect. There are several teeth straightening options out there to choose from, like Invisalign. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to slowly shift your teeth into their new locations, but what is the best way to keep your aligners clean? Here are some tips to help maintain them.
Soak Your Aligners Daily
Use Invisalign cleaning crystals to soak your aligners once every day. This makes it much easier for you to brush away food or plaque that is stuck to your Invisalign. Be sure to thoroughly rinse them before placing them back into your mouth.
Always Rinse Your Aligners
Whenever you take out your aligners, be sure to give them a good rinse immediately. To clean them, use an antibacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush. This will help to remove particles that are stuck to the clear aligners.
Brush Your Teeth Before Putting Your Aligners In
Always give your teeth a brush and floss before putting your aligners back in. You don’t want to be left with any food particles trapped against your teeth. If you don’t brush beforehand, your aligners will become dirty, and you will be more likely to develop dental issues throughout the duration of your treatment.
Clean Your Aligners Every Morning
When you wake up each morning, this is a great time to thoroughly brush both your teeth and aligners. Bacteria build up on them as you sleep, so by cleaning them, you will leave yourself with a fresher smile and better oral hygiene.
Take Your Aligners Out Before Eating
The only thing that you can consume when you wear your Invisalign aligners is water. If you want to eat or drink anything else, you should take them out. If you don’t, food particles can become stuck and increase your risk of developing cavities. Your aligners can become discolored and stained as well. Your trays were not made to be able to handle the pressure of chewing.
Use the Correct Soap
When cleaning Invisalign aligners, you shouldn’t use colored or scented soaps. They can cause discoloration and leave a residue behind. Choose soaps wisely when it comes to cleaning your aligners.
Invisalign is an excellent option for straightening teeth,
but you need to care for them. By using the tips listed above, you can keep
your aligners fresh and your smile healthy!
About the Author
Dr. Eduart Shkurti earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Southern California. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association, New York Dental Society, and Astoria County Dental Society. To learn more about Invisalign or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (718) 806-1662.