Are you interested in achieving a straighter and happier smile? If you do not want to deal with the bulkiness of traditional braces, Invisalign® is a great option to consider! Invisalign® is a set of clear plastic aligners that are designed to straighten your teeth. To help with your Invisalign® journey, here are some tips Wiltshire Family Dental recommends using to take care of your aligners to ensure optimal results.

Brush Your Aligners Regularly

In the same way as regularly brushing and flossing your teeth, you should also clean your Invisalign® trays every morning and evening. If your aligners are not properly cleaned, they can develop harmful bacteria, causing plaque to form on your teeth. To take preventative action, gently clean the inside and outside of your aligners daily by using toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.

Use Invisalign® Crystals to Soak Your Aligners

Invisalign® cleaning crystals are useful for eliminating odours, bacteria buildup and staining. Follow the instructions and add the crystals to the recommended amount of water, and leave your aligners to soak. After 15 minutes, brush, rinse and replace your trays.

Avoid Using Mouthwash on Your Aligners

Mouthwash products often contain harsh ingredients and artificial colouring that can damage or stain your aligners. Invisalign® trays are made of clear plastic, which leads them to be prone to picking up the dyes in the mouthwash. The strong chemicals can even potentially alter their shape. To avoid this problem altogether, remove your aligners before using mouthwash and rinse your mouth and replace your trays afterwards.

Store Your Invisalign® Trays in Their Case

There can be serious repercussions for not properly storing your aligners. You can risk putting them down in an area where they can either become damaged or contaminated. You also have a higher chance of losing your aligners if you ever leave them out. After taking your Invisalign® out to eat or drink, put them back in their case at all times.

Do Not Use Heat to Disinfect Your Aligners

Using hot water to kill the bacteria and germs in your aligners will only cause permanent damage to them. Despite the fact that the plastic trays are made to be durable, they can still soften and change shape if they come into contact with boiling water. Instead, use warm water to rinse and clean your aligners.

Always Remove Your Aligners Before Eating

If you are eating while wearing your Invisalign® trays, it can cause discomfort as well as damage. Aligners are not made to deal with the pressure of hard food or constant chewing. The food particles can also become trapped inside the aligners, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and tooth decay. Prior to eating, remove the trays and rinse your mouth after you are done.

Don’t Ignore Cracks or Rough Edges

Over time, your Invisalign® trays might develop cracks or rough edges. This could occur for many reasons, such as accidentally eating while wearing the aligners or repeatedly taking them out. If you notice any signs of damage, including breaks, cracks or ragged edges, let your Invisalign® dentist in Sarnia know. Major damage could potentially affect your treatment.

Remember to keep these tips in mind to get the most benefit out of your Invisalign® treatment.

If you are looking for a dental clinic near you in Sarnia that provides Invisalign® treatment, Wiltshire Family Dental may be perfect fit for you. Our team is professionally trained to provide patients with Invisalign® treatment as well as other services, including teeth whitening, dental implants, family dentistry, and more! Our dental professionals are dedicated to creating a comfortable environment and helping you achieve your oral health goals. Book an appointment for Invisalign® in Sarnia with Wiltshire Family Dental by calling 519-704-0336 today!