Proper oral hygiene is crucial during any orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. While invisalign aligners are removable, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene to keep your teeth and aligners clean and your overall dental health in check. Here are some tips and tricks to help you maintain excellent oral hygiene while undergoing Invisalign treatment.
Brush and Floss Regularly: It's essential to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day, even with Invisalign aligners. Brushing and flossing help remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Take the time to clean each tooth thoroughly and pay attention to the gumline and areas around attachments (if you have them).
Remove Aligners for Oral Care: Whenever you brush and floss, remove your Invisalign aligners. This allows you to effectively clean your teeth and gums without any obstruction. Brush your teeth gently, using a soft-bristle toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste. Clean between your teeth using floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers.
Clean Aligners Daily: Just as you clean your teeth, it's important to clean your aligners regularly. Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them. You can also use the Invisalign Cleaning System or soak them in a denture cleaner or a mixture of water and mild antibacterial soap. Avoid using hot water or toothpaste for cleaning, as they can damage the aligners.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and bacteria from your mouth. It also helps keep your mouth moist, reducing the risk of dry mouth and promoting saliva production, which is essential for maintaining oral health.
Avoid Staining Drinks: While wearing Invisalign aligners, it's best to avoid staining drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, and colored sodas. These beverages can potentially stain your aligners, making them more noticeable. If you do consume them, be sure to remove your aligners and thoroughly rinse your mouth before placing them back in.
Snack Mindfully: If you enjoy snacking, be mindful of what you eat and try to choose healthy, Invisalign-friendly options. Opt for snacks that are less likely to get stuck between your teeth or aligners, such as fruits, vegetables, yogurt, or nuts. Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods that can damage your aligners or prolong the duration of your treatment.
Keep Aligners in Their Case: When you remove your aligners for eating or oral care, always store them in their case. This helps protect them from damage and prevents accidental loss or contamination. Avoid wrapping them in a napkin or leaving them exposed, as they can easily get misplaced or thrown away.
Maintain Regular Dental Check-Ups: Continue to schedule and attend your regular dental check-ups and cleanings while undergoing Invisalign treatment. Your dentist will monitor your oral health, track the progress of your treatment, and provide any necessary guidance or adjustments. These visits are essential for maintaining overall oral hygiene.
Handle Aligners with Clean Hands: Before handling your aligners, make sure your hands are clean. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to minimize the transfer of bacteria or dirt to your aligners. This helps maintain good oral hygiene and prevents potential infections.
No comments yet