We regularly talk about the benefits of Invisalign aligners and the reasons why they are so popular amongst our dental patients. Whilst Invisalign is certainly a discreet, effective and appealing teeth straightening solution, it’s vital to follow the important rules of wearing Invisalign aligners on your teeth for a minimum of 22 hours a day, and to remember to keep your aligners and teeth clean in order to achieve the results you are hoping for.
Whilst there is certainly a cosmetic element to keeping Invisalign clean (cloudy aligners are certainly much less discreet!), failing to clean aligners can put your oral health at risk as they can be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Below, we provide our advice on keeping your aligners clean on a daily basis.
Clean your teeth and Invisalign aligners every morning and night
Bacteria can build up on your teeth and aligners as you sleep, so when you wake up, ensure that you take the time to take out your aligners, clean your teeth, and also clean your aligners to rid your mouth of harmful bacteria. Making this step part of your morning routine is very important for maintaining good oral health. You should also do the same at night before you go to sleep.
You should soak your aligners daily in the cleaning solution recommended by your dentist. Always rinse aligners with cold water as hot water can damage and misshape them, making them less effective.
Remember, before you put your aligners back onto your teeth, ensure that you have brushed and flossed to remove any bacteria and food particles. This helps you to avoid cavities and other future dental problems.
Take your aligners out to eat and drink, and rinse them when you do
Whenever you eat or drink anything other than water, take out your Invisalign trays first. This helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria and stops food particles from getting trapped in between your teeth. It’s important to also remember that Invisalign aligners are not designed for chewing.
When you remove your aligners, remember to rinse them to wash away plaque and built up saliva. A soft bristled toothbrush and some antibacterial soap will help to get rid of any particles and keep your aligners clear and discreet. Don’t use toothpaste or coloured soap as they can discolour your aligners.
Store your aligners in their case when you remove them
It’s important to store Invisalign aligners in their case when you are not wearing them, as exposure to the air can mean more exposure to bacteria. It’s also worth considering that aligners that are not put away carefully are easier to lose or damage.
If you’re going on a trip, make sure you bring your new aligners with you
If you are going away for a few days and are due to switch to a new set of aligners in this time, be sure to take them with you to ensure that there is no disruption to your Invisalign teeth straightening treatment.
Invisalign Aligners at Riverside Dental Spa
If you would like more details on Invisalign hidden braces, or would like to make an enquiry about treatment, you can read more here, or call today on 0800 0154 222. We will be happy to provide more advice on looking after your aligners during treatment.
