Invisalign aligners offer a discreet and convenient way to straighten your teeth. The ease of your cosmetic journey doesn’t stop with straightening your teeth. Because you can remove Invisalign, it allows you to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. It is crucial that you keep a proper oral hygiene routine with Invisalign. Otherwise, you could ruin your oral health and your cosmetic journey.
The Importance of Clean Invisalign Aligners
Maintaining clean Invisalign aligners is vital for several reasons. Even without clear aligners, you have bacteria that reside in your mouth. When you don’t take care of your teeth properly, this bacteria can multiply and destroy your oral health.
Unclean aligners can harbor harmful bacteria and plaque. Plaque can cling to your plastic aligners in the same way that it does to your teeth. As a result, you will have more destructive bacteria. With aligners in place, the plaque and bacteria stay trapped. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
With more bacteria, there is a higher chance of bad breath. Neglected aligners can develop a bad odor. Not taking care of your aligners can lead to bad breath.
One of the main benefits of Invisalign aligners is their clear nature. However, poor oral health can ruin this quality. Regular cleaning helps retain the clear color of the aligners. This way, they remain mostly invisible when worn.
Tips for Cleaning Invisalign Aligners
There are certain ways you should take care of your aligners. If you follow a good routine, your aligners will remain clear and clean.
After removing your aligners, rinse them under warm water to remove saliva and food particles. Then, you should use a soft toothbrush to brush them gently. Use a mild, clear soap to brush your aligners. You should avoid colored soaps or toothpaste. This is because they may stain or damage the aligners.
Another way that you can clean your Invisalign aligners is with denture cleaner. You can use a denture or a clear retainer cleanser to soak your aligners. Follow the instructions and ensure good rinsing before wearing them again.
It is important to avoid using hot water to clean your aligners. Hot water can deform or warp your aligners. Always use lukewarm water for cleaning purposes.
When you’re not wearing your aligners, store them in their provided case to prevent exposure to bacteria and damage.
Dos and Don’ts for Invisalign Aligner Care
For good oral health and to prolong the life of your Invisalign aligners, remember these dos and don’ts:
Do:
- Brush your teeth and floss before reinserting your aligners to prevent trapping food particles and plaque.
- Clean your aligners at least twice a day or as your dentist recommends.
- Maintain a consistent aligner wear schedule to ensure successful treatment.
Don’t:
- Don’t eat or drink anything except water while wearing your aligners to prevent staining and bacterial buildup.
- Avoid using colored soaps, toothpaste, or mouthwash that can stain or damage your aligners.
- Refrain from using abrasive cleaners, brushes, or toothpaste with whitening agents. These can scratch the aligners’ surface.