If your teeth need to be straightened, you may think traditional metal braces are your only option. Fortunately, that is no longer the case. Many patients with minor alignment issues are candidates for Invisalign clear aligners. These custom-made, clear braces can be removed so you can more easily maintain your oral health. Continue reading to learn some oral hygiene tips while wearing Invisalign clear aligners.
Oral Health Tips With Invisalign
When you are undergoing Invisalign treatment, you should follow these guidelines to maintain the best oral health possible:
Remove your aligners before you eat – Unlike traditional braces, you can eat whatever you want while you have Invisalign aligners, but you need to be sure to take them out before you eat. Any chewing while you’re wearing your aligners can damage them.
Remove your aligners before brushing and flossing – One of the benefits of Invisalign is that you can more easily care for your teeth. You can maintain oral health by removing your aligners when it’s time to brush and floss.
Avoid mouthwash while wearing Invisalign – Mouthwash can be extremely helpful in killing bacteria but don’t use it while wearing your aligners because it can weaken the plastic they’re made from.
Clean your aligners twice a day – It’s important to not only clean your teeth during Invisalign treatment, but you need to clean your aligners twice a day as well. Your dentist can show you how to clean your aligners.
Rinse your aligners when you take them out – Each time you remove your aligners, rinse them with water to remove bacteria and any bits of food that may be on them.
Carefully remove your aligners – You need to be careful when properly removing your aligners so as not to damage them or your teeth. Remove your aligners from the back of your mouth; use an Invisalign removal tool to help if necessary.
Wear your aligners for 22 hours a day – For your aligners to do their job, you need to wear them for at least 22 hours a day, removing them only to eat, brush, and floss.
Keep your old aligners – Hang on to your old aligners in case your treatment changes and your Raleigh dentist wants you to wear a set of aligners a second time. Also, if you lose an aligner, you can wear an older one until you can get a new one made.
Visit your Randolph dentist – Every four to six weeks, your dentist will want to check your Invisalign progress, so keep those appointments.
Considering Invisalign in Randolph, NJ?
If so, we would love to help! At Randolph Dental Associates, we strive to help our patients achieve their best oral health while improving their smiles. If you would like to schedule a consultation or appointment with our dental office, call us at (973) 895-3100.