Invisalign and Oral Hygiene

Congratulations on your new Invisalign® aligners!  You probably already know you are among a rapidly growing number of people of all ages, who are choosing the clear orthodontic aligners to achieve their perfect smiles!

While we are aware that Dr. David Taylor and our amazing staff at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics have already given you clear instructions on how to care for your aligners, we thought we might add a few reminders about Invisalign oral hygiene to help you along the way.

The reason the Invisalign aligners are so popular is that they are clear, and we want to help you ensure they stay that way. If cared for properly, most people will not even be able to tell you are wearing them!  In order to keep them “invisible” we recommend a few easy steps:

Helpful Tips to Remember:

• Start with professionally clean teeth – It is important to have your teeth thoroughly cleaned by your hygienist prior to starting your Invisalign® treatment. You do not want old plaque buildup that can cause damage to your teeth and gums between your teeth and the aligners. Maintaining good Invisalign oral hygiene is a must to avoid cavities!
• Clean your aligners daily – While you sleep, bacteria can build up on your aligners, so you will want to clean them thoroughly when you wake. Make it part of your morning ritual to brush your aligners when you brush your teeth.  Remember to use a soft bristle brush, NOT your regular toothbrush.  Keep in mind that you only want to clean with water and the brush as toothpaste can cause discoloration of the aligners.  Make sure to do this every evening as well.
• Deep Cleaning – You will also want to soak your aligners daily. You can use easy homemade cleaning solutions like Hydrogen Peroxide and water, or even Vinegar and water. For either, you will mix one part Hydrogen Peroxide OR Vinegar with one part water in a container and soak for 20 minutes. Be sure the water is not hot so your aligners don’t get warped. You can also purchase Denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals.  You will want to follow the directions to ensure your aligners do not get damaged. After they have soaked, take your designated soft aligner brush to brush away any particles that may be on them. Remember to thoroughly rinse your aligners before you put them back in your mouth.
• Food – Always remove your aligners before you eat. Not only will food damage and stain your aligners, but food particles can get caught between your teeth and the aligners potentially causing tooth decay or gum disease.
• Drink – Remember to remove your aligners whenever you drink. The only time it is okay to leave them in, is when you have water or plain sparkling water with NO sugar.  Flavored drinks, even light ones can cause discoloration.  Avoid coffee and hot drinks with aligners as they may not only stain them, but the hot liquid can warp them as well.

Daily Habits for Maintaining Your Invisalign

• Oral Hygiene: Probably one of the most important habits to have always, but even more important while using the Invisalign aligners is to keep your teeth and gums well cared for.  Brush your teeth 2 to 3 times a day. Brush after meals and snacks or drinking anything other than water.  Floss regularly to ensure there are no particles trapped between teeth that can cause tooth decay and gum disease or unsightly debris.
• Cleaning Aligners: It is important to always rinse or clean your aligners before putting them back in your mouth. When you wake, after you eat or drink, and before bed. If rinsing is not possible, there are products available such as sprays or towelette wipes to aid with proper cleansing.
• Aligner Storage: It is highly recommended you have your aligners case or storage container with you at all times. While the aligners are designed to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, they must be removed before you eat or drink, or you may chose to remove them for short periods of time for other reasons.  Having your case assures you have a clean, sanitary, safe place for your aligners.  Imagine leaving them folded up in a napkin at a restaurant!
• Travel Kit: Put together a travel kit you can take with you daily that includes a safe sealed container for storage, your Invisalign cleaning products, tools,  toothbrush, floss, and mouthwash.
• Avoid Lipstick or Lip Gloss: Lip products can adhere to the aligners and interfere with their grip on the teeth. Colored lip products can stain the aligners or be trapped against a tooth and cause discoloration. Clear lip balm can be used for dry or chapped lips.

 You are now well on your way to impeccable oral hygiene with your aligners!  Following these easy, no-nonsense steps will help you to maintain not only your evolving smile but your aligners as well.  Please remember, Dr. Taylor and our staff are always available if you have questions or concerns regarding your Invisalign® aligners.  We are committed to making this process as easy as possible for you or your child.

Are You Considering Invisalign?

GET A FREE CONSULTATION! 

See how affordable your new smile can be by scheduling a Free Consultation with Dr. Taylor, the leading Invisalign Provider in the Rio Grande Valley. He will take the time to explain your treatment options, answer your questions and make sure you’re comfortable with your treatment plan.

We have payment options including in-house, interest-free financing with no credit check and low monthly payments and we can help with your insurance questions too!

We look forward to meeting you and helping you obtain the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted!

For more information or to schedule your FREE CONSULTATION,

Call:  956-621-7907

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