Invisalign is a trusted household name for straightening teeth in children, teens, and adults without traditional wire braces. Invisalign are clear aligners that can be worn and removed by the patient at their convenience when eating, drinking, or brushing their teeth. They are the best method for nearly invisible teeth straightening, and aligners are switched out every two weeks to gradually straighten the teeth and achieve the best smile possible.
Invisalign aligners are created by taking impressions of the patient’s teeth in order to make a custom mold. They’re a great low-maintenance option to traditional braces, but they also require good oral hygiene. The Invisalign treatment period can last anywhere from 6 to 24 months, so establishing a good oral hygiene routine is imperative to keeping your teeth pearly white. Here are the top six best practices to maintain good oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment:
Daily Oral Hygiene
Daily oral hygiene is always a top priority in morning and evening routines. During Invisalign treatment, continue to follow best practices for daily oral hygiene– make sure to brush your teeth before placing aligners in. You should be brushing after every meal. Brushing your teeth at a 45-degree angle to your gum line helps to get into hard-to-reach spots. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months since the bristles break down over time and are less effective at cleaning your teeth.
Keep Regular Dentist Appointments
Even though Invisalign treatment has its own set appointments, it’s important to keep your regular dentist visits during the treatment period as well. Regular teeth cleanings help prevent excess plaque building up and screen for cavities which can accumulate in your Invisalign, so keep your scheduled teeth cleanings to ensure you’re maintaining good oral health while having Invisalign treatment.
Cleaning Invisalign Aligners
It’s necessary to keep the Invisalign aligners clean on a daily basis. Wash your hands with soap and water, then use a fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush, cotton swab, or soft cloth to gently clean the aligners. Only use warm water to rinse the aligners, as hot water can warp the aligners causing them to no longer fit. After eating, clean your aligners before you put them on as bacteria and food can build up on the aligners which can cause tooth discoloration and cavities.
Preparing Teeth to Wear Aligners
Cleaning your teeth every time before wearing the aligners will also help in maintaining good oral hygiene. Food and bacteria can get stuck between the teeth, and wearing an aligner without cleaning your teeth beforehand traps debris inside, which can lead to tooth damage over time. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing your teeth before putting on your Invisalign aligners is the best practice to ensure good oral hygiene.
Avoid Drinking Sugary Beverages
Drinking beverages with a high acid or sugar content like coffee while your aligners are on can erode your teeth’s enamel, and enjoy these drinks before wearing your aligners. Then brush and floss before replacing your aligners, as the sugars can stick to the hard-to-reach surfaces of your teeth.
Maintain Regular Invisalign Check-ups
Invisalign is a great option for patients looking to improve their smile without the use of traditional metal braces. Just like braces, Invisalign requires regular checkups by Dr. Swan at Swan Orthodontics in Caledonia, MI. Dr. Kathryn Swan and her team are available to answer all of your Invisalign questions and figure out a plan to create your best smile. Schedule a consultation today for an in-office appointment with their helpful and friendly staff– your journey to a perfect smile begins here.