Straight Ahead to Straighter Teeth: The Do’s and Don’ts of Invisalign

Invisalign has allowed many people to realign their smiles without the often uncomfortable metal wires or dietary restrictions that come with traditional braces. While many find that Invisalign is the most convenient orthodontic method available, it still requires the patient to follow certain rules while wearing their clear aligners. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when wearing Invisalign so you can achieve a more ideal result from the process.

When Wearing Invisalign, Be Sure To…

There are a few habits that are crucial to a successful Invisalign treatment, including:

Give your aligners daily cleanings.

If your aligners aren’t kept clean, they can trap food debris between themselves and the teeth, leading to tooth decay, bad breath, and discoloration. Wash your hands before cleaning your aligners inside and out using a soft toothbrush and toothpaste.

Let your aligners soak every day.

Treat your aligners to a bath in Invisalign cleaning crystals or an approved denture cleaner every day. Afterward, gently brush and rinse them to eliminate any lingering food particles, plaque, and denture cleaner.

Clean your teeth thoroughly before putting your aligners back in.

Brush and floss before you put your clear aligners back on your teeth. If any food debris or plaque is stuck to or between your teeth, your clear aligners can protect it from your mouth’s natural cleaning process, allowing harmful oral bacteria to multiply rapidly.

When Wearing Invisalign, Avoid…

Some practices can cause delays in your Invisalign treatment. A few actions to avoid include:

Don’t clean your aligners with harsh chemicals.

Harsh chemicals like bleach can degrade the plastic your aligners are made from, and hot or cold water can cause it to warp. Use only approved cleaning agents and lukewarm water when cleaning your aligners.

Don’t eat or drink when wearing your aligners.

Invisalign clear aligners are not designed to withstand the force of biting and chewing. Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything but water to keep them safe from damage.

Don’t leave your clear aligners out in the open.

Carry a pocket-size case for your aligners to keep them safe when you take them out. Placing your aligners on a napkin next to your eating space makes it too easy for them to be thrown away at the end of the meal.

With proper hygiene, care, and maintenance, Invisalign can help a patient achieve a straighter, healthier, and more beautiful smile. Consulting with your dentist can determine if Invisalign is a suitable treatment for you.

About the Practice

Glastonbury Dental Associates provides excellent and reliable oral healthcare to the community of Glastonbury, CT. Led by Drs. Marc Scoles, Jonathan Susat, Matthew P. Scoles, and Elyse Sudhoff, the staff provides each patient with effective treatment and courteous customer service. Areas of expertise include general, cosmetic, restorative, and emergency dentistry in addition to Invisalign treatments. For more information on caring for your smile while wearing Invisalign, contact the office online or dial (860) 633-3671.