Clear aligners, like braces, require a higher level of care to protect your teeth from discoloration and decay. The average length of time a patient needs to wear braces or clear aligners, like Invisalign, for straight teeth is approximately two years. Proper cleaning of your Invisalign trays is vital for successful orthodontics treatment. Below are some dos and don’ts for the best Invisalign brace care.

Do’s

1. Brush and Floss Every Morning

Sleeping with your aligners may result in a bacterial build-up that may be harmful to your teeth. Ensure proper oral hygiene by taking off your clear trays and thoroughly brushing your teeth. Flossing may help remove food particles stuck between the teeth.

2. Clean The Aligners Daily

Proper care of your Invisalign aligners means that the trays remain invisible, odorless, and free of harmful bacteria. Use a soft toothbrush to clean over the tray surface using a colorless, unscented soap. Rinse after cleaning. Avoid using hot water as it may damage the plastic aligners.

3. Rinse the Trays Every Time You Take Them off

Any time that you put your Invisalign braces aside make sure you rinse them. The clean, running water washes away saliva, food particles, and bacteria that may be present on the trays. While it would be best to brush your teeth after every meal, it may be impractical in some situations. Make sure you thoroughly rinse your mouth and aligners before placing them back. Brush and floss the teeth as soon as you get the chance.

4. Soak The Aligners for a Deeper Cleaning

Your orthodontist expects you to have your aligners on 20 to 22 hours a day for the best Invisalign outcome. You may use the remaining 2 hours or so to deep clean your clear trays in a denture cleaner. Organize with your favorite Spokane orthodontics practice (hint: it’s us!) to get Invisalign crystals to soak your braces in. Hydrogen peroxide and vinegar may also do the trick. Rinse the trays thoroughly before placing them back.

5. While Travelling, Carry Your Next Set

It may be convenient to keep a supply set of your aligners every time you travel. Aligners are typically changed every two weeks. Talk to your orthodontist and have them shipped straight to your door or organize with the practice’s staff for your next set. It may help avoid delays during the treatment process.

Don’ts

1. Do Not Leave the Aligners Out in The Open

You may have to take off your Invisalign braces while eating, brushing, or playing sports. Always have them locked in a protective case. Leaving them in the open may lead to the accumulation of dirt and bacteria that may cause complications later on. It may also prevent breaking and misplacing the set. That means a napkin is not a good place to put your clear aligners.

2. Don’t Use Toothpaste or Scented Soaps While Cleaning Aligners

While toothpaste may be great for your teeth, it may cause discoloration to your aligners. Toothpaste contains abrasive elements that may turn your clear plates duller, affecting their aesthetics. Colored soaps may also change the appearance of the braces. Scented soaps may leave a bad taste in your mouth as you place the aligners back.

The best Invisalign treatment demands proper care for your clear trays. The tips above may help keep your aligners clean and invisible as well as maintain good oral hygiene. To find out more about how to look after your braces or clear aligners, contact a Bret Johnson Orthodontics team member today.