Caring for Invisalign Aligners

Invisalign® aligners are a popular orthodontic treatment option for teens and adults for their discreet appearance, convenience, and effectiveness in straightening teeth. Unlike traditional metal braces, clear Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible. This makes them an attractive option for adults and teens who do not want the “metal mouth” look. Invisalign aligners are also removable, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and eat all your favorite foods without dietary restrictions. Though Invisalign treatment is highly convenient, allowing you to eat whatever you like and remove the aligners when necessary, maintaining proper oral hygiene is critical to avoid staining and to ensure the aligners retain their shape and effectiveness. Luckily, you shouldn’t have any trouble integrating just a few more easy steps into your oral care routine!

Properly caring for your Invisalign aligners helps to ensure your treatment works effectively and your aligners last throughout the process. Developing and sticking to a consistent cleaning routine helps prevent bacteria and plaque buildup, which can lead to oral health issues such as cavities and gum disease.

Here are 5 simple steps you can follow to care for your clear aligners:

• Daily Cleaning: Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and gently brush them with a soft toothbrush to remove any debris. This should not be the same toothbrush you use to brush your teeth!
• Avoid Hot Water: Never use hot water to clean your aligners, because it can warp the plastic and affect the fit.
• Proper Storage: Always store aligners in their designated case when not in use to avoid loss or damage.
• Prevent Staining: There are no dietary restrictions during Invisalign treatment. However, you should remember to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent stains and discoloration.
• Regular Inspections: Frequently inspect your aligners for any cracks or damage and promptly report any issues to your orthodontist.

By following these guidelines, you can maintain the clarity and functionality of your Invisalign aligners and keep your orthodontic treatment on track!

Morning Care
Clean your aligners after waking because bacteria and plaque can accumulate on them overnight. When you start your day, remove your aligners and rinse them with lukewarm water. Then, use a soft toothbrush (not your regular toothbrush) to gently brush the aligners. That’s it! You’re ready to tackle the day with a confident smile.

After Meals
Rinse your mouth and aligners after eating to prevent staining and to maintain oral hygiene. Food particles and sugars left on your teeth can become trapped between the aligners and your teeth, which can lead to plaque buildup, stains, potential tooth decay, and delays in treatment time.

Nightly Care
Before going to bed, clean your aligners so they stay hygienic throughout the night. Rinse them with lukewarm water and brush them gently, just like you did upon waking, to remove any food particles or plaque.

Cleaning your Invisalign aligners is quite easy! Gently brush them with a soft toothbrush and rinse with lukewarm water. Never use harsh chemicals, such as bleach or soap, or abrasive products, like toothpaste or baking soda, to clean your aligners. Always opt for cleaning solutions recommended by your orthodontist and avoid any products that could compromise the effectiveness of your aligners.

Always store your aligners in the provided case when not in use. Wrapping aligners in tissues or napkins is risky because they can easily be mistaken for trash and accidentally thrown away. Also, tissues and napkins do not offer any protection against physical damage, which can lead to the aligners becoming bent, cracked, or otherwise compromised. The provided case is designed to keep aligners secure and clean to prevent unnecessary loss or damage.

Following the recommended wear time of 20-22 hours per day is essential to achieving the best treatment results possible. Consistently wearing your aligners allows them to apply continuous pressure and guide your teeth into their desired positions according to your customized treatment plan. Your aligners should only be removed for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, flossing, and special occasions. Just keep in mind that removing your aligners for extended periods can delay progress and potentially lengthen your overall treatment duration.

Assess the Damage

If your aligners become damaged, do not panic! First, assess the extent of the damage. Minor cracks may allow you to continue wearing them until your next scheduled change. However, if the aligners are significantly bent, broken, or no longer fit properly, then you should switch to the previous set to maintain progress until you can visit your orthodontist.

Contact Your Orthodontist

If your Invisalign aligners become lost or damaged, contact your orthodontist immediately to discuss the issue and request guidance on the best course of action. Your orthodontist may recommend wearing a previous set, provide a replacement right away, or adjust your treatment plan as necessary. Prompt communication is key for keeping your treatment on track and minimizing potential setbacks.

Adopting these best practices for Invisalign aligner care helps facilitate a smooth and effective treatment journey. By following a daily cleaning routine, using appropriate cleaning techniques, and properly storing your aligners, you can maintain their clarity and functionality. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn more about achieving a beautiful, healthy smile with Invisalign aligners. Trust Smile Doctors by DN Orthodontics to guide you through every step of your smile journey!