Once upon a time, the only way to correct crooked teeth was to endure a set of metal braces. Bulky, uncomfortable, and rather unsightly, it’s no wonder why people started turning to Invisalign aligners when they became available. Their sleek design keeps the wrong kind of attention away from your favorite incisors. They’re even easy to clean and talk with.
However, they’re not so easy that they don’t require any maintenance. If you love the way your Invisalign aligners look and feel, follow these four tips to keep them from becoming bothersome and noticeable.
Clean Your Aligners Regularly
Traditional braces are stuck to your teeth, so you’re stuck trying to pry food particles out from the tiny space between them and your teeth. Invisalign aligners, however, can be taken out for a thorough cleaning.
Take advantage of this and gently scrub your aligners every morning, every night, and whenever you remove them. Bacteria can collect on the trays while you sleep, and a solid rinsing routine will prevent plaque and dried saliva from dirtying your otherwise clear look. It might sound simple, but maintaining pristine Invisalign trays is a surefire way to keep them invisible and you protected from cavities and gum disease.
Clean Your Teeth Regularly
Assuming you’re not eating with your aligners in place (which you should never, ever do), your teeth see more intensive action than your trays. Skipping out on a cleaning risks setting your aligners against food particles and anything else your teeth might have picked up throughout the day. As a general rule, if your teeth are dirty, your aligners will become dirty.
Avoid Colored Dental Products
Food particles and dark liquids can stain your aligners, but so can certain dental products! If you wash your Invisalign trays with colored or scented toothpaste, soaps, or other agents, can go from invisible to very, very visible. And they’ll also leave a strange aftertaste in your mouth when you remove them in the morning.
Plan Accordingly for Trips
You can’t properly care for your trays if you don’t have your equipment. Set notifications on your phone, leave post-it notes where you’ll notice them, or have a friend remind you to pack your cleaning tools and case for long trips. Even for shorter journeys, such as going to work or a quick jaunt to a family member’s, keeping up with your dental homework will keep you feeling fresh and your aligners looking glamorous.
Invisalign aligners truly are an excellent option for helping to correct crooked teeth. Properly taking care of them is a matter of consistent cleaning and careful planning. To be absolutely certain they won’t change color on you, ask your dentist for maintenance strategies and accessories. They’ll help you make sure your aligners stay convenient and comfortable!
About the Practice
At Glastonbury Dental Associates, our highly trained team of dentists prioritizes patients and their smiles. They are all experienced professionals familiar with Invisalign aligner tips and tricks. To learn more or book an appointment, visit their website or call the office at 860-633-3671.