Are you concerned about the care of your Invisalign trays?
Believe it or not, keeping your Invisalign trays in good condition really isn’t all that hard. There are just a few precautions you need to take to ensure your trays remain clean and that they remain usable throughout your treatment.
If you want to learn more about how to care for your Invisalign trays, all you need to do is keep reading.
Table of Contents
1. Storing and Cleaning Your Invisalign Trays
Storing and cleaning your Invisalign trays is key in order to ensure that your aligners stay effective and are in good condition. Here are some tips for caring for your Invisalign trays: First, store your trays in the case provided when not in your mouth.
Next, brush and rinse your trays with cold water to remove plaque and bacteria. You can also use the special Invisalign treatment cleaning crystals, which are specifically designed to clean aligner trays. Use the cleaning crystals to soak your trays for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry them.
2. Eating Habits with Invisalign
When you’re wearing Invisalign trays, good eating habits include avoiding sticky, chewy, and hard foods that can damage the trays or cause them to break. To keep your aligners in good condition, you should never bite into or chew food with your Invisalign trays on.
Hot liquids like coffee and tea can warp the fit of your Invisalign trays, so it’s best to remove them before you drink. Additionally, try to avoid sugary, acidic beverages, like soda and citrus juices, which can damage the trays and cause tooth discoloration.
3. Selecting Products to Care For Your Invisalign Trays
Selecting the right products to care for your Invisalign trays is essential in order to maintain the oral health of your teeth and gums and ensure your Invisalign works properly. Begin by asking your orthodontist what type of products he/she recommends.
When brushing and flossing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and an approved antiseptic mouthwash to freshen your breath and to eliminate any bacteria. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwash and toothpaste that contain harsh abrasives.
4. Planning Ahead for Replacement Trays
Start planning for your replacement tray the moment you get your current tray. That way, you will ensure that the next tray arrives in enough time to start the process and adjust to the changes.
When your dentist or orthodontist notifies you that it’s time to switch trays, be sure to make an appointment as soon as possible. Additionally, order the replacement tray right away. As each tray needs to be worn for two weeks, allow enough time for the tray to be shipped and arrive before your appointment.
5. Scheduling Regular Professional Cleanings to Support Invisalign Care
Professional cleanings by your dentist can help remove plaque, eliminate bad breath, and prevent the buildup of bacteria, all of which can affect the fit of your trays.
During each cleaning, your dentist will also inspect your trays and teeth to make sure they’re not damaged or over-worn. Doing so can help prevent any further damage or the need for replacing trays altogether.
Caring for Your Invisalign Trays
Following these tips for caring for your Invisalign trays aligners will help ensure you get the most out of your orthodontic treatment. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth properly, rinse carefully, and avoid sticky and hard foods.
If you have further questions about your dental health, be sure to consult your dentist.
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