How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners: Do’s & Don’ts from Experts

Invisalign aligners are a discreet and effective way to straighten your teeth, but you need to care for them properly to allow them to do their job well and keep them in optimal condition. Whether you’re new to Invisalign or you want to confirm that you are taking care of them correctly, here are some dos and don’ts from experts to keep your treatment experience smooth and successful.

Do’s

Clean Aligners Daily

It’s crucial to note that your aligners require just as much brushing as your teeth. Additionally, Invisalign trays are very susceptible to plaque and germs, which could cause bad breath, tooth decay, and staining. So, to avoid it, gently brush your aligners with a soft-bristle toothbrush and clear, anti-bacterial soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals.

Store Aligners in Their Case

One of the biggest mistakes people make is leaving their aligners lying around when they’re not wearing them. These aligners can not only collect bacteria and dust, but they can also get lost or damaged easily. Aligners are custom-made for your mouth, and losing them can push back your treatment significantly.

Always carry your case; whenever you take your aligners out for meals or brushing, just place them directly in their case.

Remove Aligners Before Eating

Invisalign has one of the largest benefits of allowing you to take them out during meals. Some people tend to forget or ignore the fact that they need to take them out, thinking that a few bites will not do any harm. When eating with your aligners in, you can distort the plastic and create an environment for food residue, which can discolour the aligners and add odour.

Even soft or non-staining foods can distort or break the aligners, so it is always best practice to take them out completely before eating and rinse your mouth out before placing them back in.

Don’ts

Don’t Use Hard Water for Cleaning

Tap water may be your first choice; however, beware of drinking straight from the tap, especially if you have hard water. Minerals in hard water can build up on your aligners over time. Filtered and distilled lukewarm water are your best options for rinsing and soaking aligners.

Avoid Eating or Drinking with Aligners In

This is not negotiable. Aside from plain water, anything else, like juice, coffee, soda, and especially hot beverages, can stain or damage your trays. Food can get trapped between your teeth and the aligners, leading to hygiene issues.

If you sip coffee or wine with your aligners in, they are likely to stain. If you ever forget and are drinking something besides water, rinse your aligners very well and clean them ASAP.

Don’t Use Harsh Cleaning Products

Using harsh products will break down the plastic, making it brittle or discoloured.

Only use gentle soaps, cleaning tablets suggested by Invisalign, or natural solutions like diluted white vinegar if you need to do an occasional, random or deep clean.

Conclusion

Invisalign is an excellent step toward a confident, straighter smile, but the results depend not only on wearing your aligners as directed but also on caring for your aligners. Follow these simple do’s and don’ts, and your aligners will stay clean, clear, and functional throughout your treatment. If you want to get your Invisalign treatment done, visit Thyme Dental Clinic, which is equipped with the latest and modern dentistry equipment to offer quality treatment and, most importantly, at affordable rates.