Caring for your Invisalign® Trays
In order to enjoy the full success of Invisalign®, it is important that patients care for their customized aligning trays throughout treatment. To properly care for your aligning trays and dentition, consider adopting the following techniques into your regular oral home care.
Rinse aligning trays after every meal
Throughout the day, saliva and plaque accumulate on the aligning trays, making them the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Rinsing your trays when you take them out for meals helps prevent reintroducing bacteria into your smile, protecting your teeth as they are realigned.
Brush and floss before replacing your aligners
After eating, bits of food are trapped between your teeth; without cleaning, they increase the risk of cavities, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. With this in mind, be sure to thoroughly brush and floss after each meal before returning the aligning trays to your mouth.
Be gentle when cleaning Invisalign®
Part of the Invisalign® advantage is its ability to straighten your teeth discreetly. Be sure to clean your trays with gently, using clear anti-bacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush. This way you won’t scuff or scratch your aligning trays and you will maintain dental aesthetics throughout treatment.
Soak aligners in the right solution regularly
In addition to rinsing your trays on a routine basis, it is important to thoroughly clean the aligning trays on a regular basis. To maintain the precise shape of these trays, avoid washing trays in the dishwasher or with mouthwash, as suggested by popular news posts.
These techniques can stain and warp the trays, negating their discreet nature as well as interfering with treatment success. Rather, soak your aligners in the official Invisalign® cleaning crystals, denture cleaner, or retainer cleaner to keep your trays clear and sanitized.
Learn more about Invisalign® today!
At The Dental Clinic, Dr. Shackleford and Dr. Galayda are pleased to offer Invisalign® as an alternative to straightening smiles without the hassle of frequent visits or uncomfortable metal braces. To learn more about this treatment option, contact our Lincoln Park dentists today!