Hygiene Tips to Follow While Using Invisalign
When you first get your Invisalign aligners, you may be wondering how best to keep them clean. After all, you’ll be wearing them for 20 to 22 hours a day, which means they’ll be exposed to a lot of food and bacteria. use these five hygiene tips to make sure your aligners stay clean and your smile stays healthy
Brush and Floss Your Teeth First
This one should go without saying, but it’s important to brush and floss your teeth before you put in your aligners. Not only will this remove any food particles or bacteria that could get trapped beneath the aligners, but it will also help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. When you do brush your teeth, be sure to use a non-abrasive toothpaste so you don’t damage the aligners. For most people, brushing twice a day should be sufficient.
Limit Your Intake of Foods and Beverages That Cause Stains
Coffee, tea, red wine, and soda can all cause stains on your teeth—and your aligners. If you must have them, be sure to brush your teeth (and aligners) immediately afterwards. And try to limit yourself to one or two cups/glasses per day. There are also some foods that can cause staining, such as blueberries, soy sauce, and beets. Again, if you do eat them, brush your teeth (and aligners) right away.
Brush Your Aligners Properly
You should brush your aligners at least once a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid toothpastes with whiteners or abrasives, as these can damage the aligners. Instead, use mild soap and lukewarm water. And don’t forget to brush the tongue side of the aligner as well! This will help to remove any bacteria that could cause bad breath.
Use an Invisalign Cleaning Kit
Invisalign offers a special cleaning kit that comes with a cleaning crystals and a retainer case. The crystals help to remove any build-up on the aligners, while the case protects them when you’re not wearing them. For best results, soak your aligners in the cleaning crystals for at least 15 minutes per day.
Store Your Invisalign Aligners in a Case
Whenever you’re not wearing your aligners—including when you’re eating or brushing your teeth—be sure to store them in their case. This will protect them from dirt and debris and keep them from getting lost. When you’re ready to put them back in, simply rinse them off with lukewarm water.
Conclusion
As you can see, it’s not difficult to keep your Invisalign aligners clean. Just be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly, avoid foods and beverages that cause stains, and brush your aligners with mild soap and water. And don’t forget to use an Invisalign cleaning kit and store them in their case when you’re not wearing them. By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your smile looking its best.
