Clear aligners like Invisalign® make orthodontic correction comfortable and discreet. The medical-grade plastic in these aligners is durable, but patients must keep them clean and in good condition.
Here are 9 tips from dental experts that will help you keep your aligners sparkling clean and support your oral health:
1. Clean Aligners Every Day
Your aligners need a thorough cleaning at least once a day.
2. Take Aligners Out to Eat or Drink
Some younger patients may feel that they can get away with taking a bite of food or drinking a beverage other than water. However, these activities could lead to stained, damaged aligners. Always remove the aligners to eat or drink.
3. Avoid Using Hot Water
Never clean your aligners in hot water. This mistake could warp or distort the aligners, rendering them useless.
4. Use A Branded Cleaning Solution
Invisalign sells cleaning crystals. When in doubt, use the aligner brand's custom-made cleaning systems, which are designed specifically for this purpose.
5. Use Clear Liquid Soap
Do not use dyed or scented soap on your aligners. The soap's dyes could discolor your aligners, and the scent could linger, making them taste unpleasant.
6. Do Not Use Abrasive Toothpaste
Abrasive toothpaste can scratch and damage clear aligners. Avoid whitening toothpaste and baking soda toothpaste.
7. Use a Baby Toothbrush On Aligners
Use the softest toothbrush you can find for your aligners. Baby toothbrushes often work best. Avoid scrubbing hard with the toothbrush.
8. Remove Cloudiness with Hydrogen Peroxide Soaks
Mix a 50-50 solution of peroxide and warm (not hot) water and soak the aligners for one to two hours. Rinse well before wearing them.
9. Always Put Aligners in Their Case
Clear aligners can be easily lost, scratched, or crushed if not kept in their case whenever they are not in your mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Aligners
How do clear aligners work?
Clear aligners gradually move teeth into optimal positions. Your doctor creates a graduated series of aligners, each with the teeth in a slightly different position. At the end of the series, you will enjoy an even smile.
What are the advantages of clear aligners?
- Comfortable: Clear aligners fit flush against your teeth. They have no sharp edges, brackets, or wires.
- Discreet: Aligners allow patients to receive orthodontic care without drawing extra attention.
- Effective: In most cases, Invisalign and braces provide equivalent effects.
- Better Oral Hygiene than Braces: Since Invisalign and other transparent aligner brands come out for oral care, patients have a significantly easier time keeping their teeth clean. Researchers find that Invisalign patients have better gum health than braces patients.
Call Suwanee Family Dentistry
Clear aligners like Invisalign can simplify the process of straightening your teeth. To ensure the best results, take excellent care of your aligners. If you have any questions about aligner care, please call our Suwanee, GA, office at 678-714-2380.