Invisalign has made orthodontic treatment convenient—esthetically and functionally. These transparent and removable clear aligners help avoid the ‘mouthful of metals and wires’ look. They also allow you to continue enjoying your favorite foods. However, oral hygiene is essential to get the best results from Invisalign treatment. In addition to brushing, flossing, and timely check-ups, one more factor plays a crucial role in the success of your Invisalign treatment. Guess what it is? Yes! The maintenance of the Invisalign trays.
Invisalign trays are made of polyurethane resin, a medical-grade plastic. They are easy to clean, but you need to follow the steps each day to ensure a healthy smile by the end of your treatment.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Invisalign Trays Daily?
A simple answer is that your oral health deteriorates when you wear Invisalign trays without cleaning them regularly. Food particles trapped between your teeth may get stuck to the trays, leading to bacterial growth, plaque formation, and bad breath. In addition, the trays that are so sought-after for their discreetness develop stains and turn yellow. Now imagine yourself taking and smiling wearing yellowish plastic aligners in a foul-smelling mouth. It defeats the purpose of wearing Invisalign Clear aligners to get that perfect smile, right?
So, How Do You Care For Invisalign Trays?
Follow these tips to keep clear aligners spick and span.
1. Clean your teeth and trays regularly
Follow a routine to clean Invisalign as you do for your teeth. Bacteria that build up when you sleep need to be cleaned every morning. Similarly, clean your Invisalign before going to bed. You may use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle detergent-free liquid to clean it.
2. Use specialized cleaning solution
One of the best ways to clean Invisalign is to soak the trays in Invisalign cleaning solution (Invisalign crystal) once a day. It helps keep the aligners odor-free and looking their best. After 15-20 minutes, brush off food particles or plaque. (Do not use your toothbrush for this step.) Then, wash the aligners thoroughly and put them back into your mouth.
3. Store aligners properly
Do not leave your Invisalign trays out in the open. Instead, clean and put them in the case when you remove them. Leaving Invisalign exposed may lead to bacteria build-up, general wear and tear, or loss.
4. Keep your mouth clean
Always brush and floss your teeth before wearing your aligners. Lack of dental hygiene may cause dental problems that may interrupt your treatment.
5. Remove the trays before eating and drinking
Yes! Invisalign offers a lot of conveniences and allows you to eat what you like. However, do not forget to remove Invisalign before eating and drinking; doing so will prevent staining and damage as Invisalign trays cannot take bite pressure.
6. Do not use scented soaps and toothpaste as cleansers
Soaps and toothpastes may make your Invisalign smell, give it an unpleasant smile, and leave them discolored over time.
So, be diligent about maintaining your Invisalign trays as you prepare for a beautiful and bright smile.
