Why Proper Care and Cleaning Is Important During Invisalign

Invisalign® is a very simple and effective way to straighten your teeth. The system uses a series of clear plastic trays that correct teeth alignment. People who use Invisalign usually have to wear the trays for 20 hours or more per day. Invisalign trays fit very closely to the teeth. Proper care and cleaning while wearing Invisalign can make the process more successful.

Proper oral hygiene is key

Poor oral hygiene is a major reason why Invisalign does not work for some people. Dentists use a special program to digitally design the Invisalign trays. These trays are custom-made to fit a person’s teeth pattern. Because the trays fit so closely to the teeth, any food trapped could cause several problems.

Invisalign wearers must brush and floss the teeth before replacing the Invisalign trays. If wearers do not do this, food particles remain on the teeth and promote the growth of biofilm. This can lead to tooth decay and gingivitis. Because the Invisalign trays sit so close to the teeth, bacterial growth happens quickly, and cavities will develop.

If a person replaces the Invisalign trays after eating without brushing and flossing, food particles may remain. The particles become trapped between the teeth and the tray. What some people do not realize is that these trapped particles can prevent the teeth from moving into alignment. Maintaining good oral hygiene will keep the patient on track in their teeth straightening journey.

The right and wrong foods matter

Good oral hygiene is only one half of the coin when it comes to Invisalign care. The foods and drinks that people consume can also sabotage the work that the teeth straighteners do. Certain foods and beverages stain the plastic trays. People should remove the trays before eating. The trays can be expensive to replace. If Invisalign trays become stained, the patient may have to wear them that way until the next set of trays.

Invisalign wearers should also never chew food while wearing the teeth straightening trays. Chewing and grinding can damage the plastic. Food and liquid can also seep into the trays. Smoking and chewing tobacco will cause problems during the teeth-straightening process.

Taking Invisalign trays out

Whenever a person wants to eat, they should remove their trays. Some people struggle with removing them by hand, especially if the fingernails are too short or recently manicured. Many patients have success with a removal tool. Dentists advise that patients soak Invisalign trays in diluted mouthwash or even denture cleaner. This is a great way to reduce or eliminate odor and some light staining that can occur.

Good habits for a great Invisalign experience

Taking good care of your Invisalign trays is key to an optimal experience. Excellent oral hygiene will ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy. People who follow a good care routine will have more success. You will be able to address any potential problems as soon as you notice them. Proper care and cleaning are essential to getting the most out of Invisalign.

Request an appointment here: https://dentistryonpark.com or call Dentistry on Park, LLC at (781) 443-8131 for an appointment in our Stoughton office.

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