Those looking to straighten their teeth discreetly and fast can opt for the Invisalign® system. This teeth straightening treatment employs a set of clear aligner trays to correct teeth alignment and bite. Once the treatment starts, it is necessary to take proper care of the Invisalign trays to keep them in good shape.
Invisalign trays maintenance
The following goes over tips for caring for Invisalign aligner trays.
Cultivate the habit of cleaning the aligners daily
One of the most important steps of caring for the trays is to keep them clean. The trays need to be cleaned both in the morning and evening when cleaning the teeth. A soft toothbrush can be used to scrub the aligners on both sides. Avoid using toothpaste or colored or scented soap because these may leave a residue or unpleasant taste. Cleaning will keep bacteria off the aligners, which could otherwise be harmful to the teeth and oral health.
Besides cleaning the aligners in the morning and evening, patients should also rinse them every time they take them off. This will prevent plaque or dried saliva from collecting. The trays will be free of stuck particles and kept looking clean and transparent. It is advisable to bring along the necessary items for cleaning the aligners when leaving the house.
Soak the aligner trays every day
It is advisable to soak the aligners at least once a day for about 15 to 20 minutes in Invisalign cleaning crystals or denture cleaners. This will help keep the trays hygienic, looking good and odor-free. After soaking, brush the trays with a toothbrush to remove plaque, rinse them and put them back on.
Avoid eating with the aligners on
The good part of getting aligners is that they are removable when needed. It is important to remove them when eating or drinking; otherwise, they could get stained or damaged. Water is the only acceptable liquid to drink with aligners.
Brush and floss after removing the Invisalign
Just as it is important to keep the trays clean, the mouth needs to be clean as well. Plaque or food debris that is trapped after wearing the aligner trays could be there for a while, and they could cause issues such as cavities or gingivitis. Oral issues that can develop may extend the duration of treatment. Therefore, brushing and flossing are necessary before wearing the Invisalign trays.
Keep the aligner trays in their case
Whenever the aligners come off the teeth — whether for a meal or to brush the teeth — they need to be stored in their case. Leaving them in the open exposes them to bacteria. Also, there is the risk of damaging the aligners or losing them accidentally. It is advisable to carry the carrying case around when going out. If the trays are left out for a few hours, be sure to soak and rinse them before wearing them again.
In conclusion
If you need more tips on caring for Invisalign trays or need to undergo teeth straightening treatment, contact the general dentist for an appointment.
