Care and Maintenance of aligners

Invisalign is a popular and effective orthodontic treatment, but diligent care is required to keep your aligners in top condition.

Firstly, it’s crucial to establish a consistent cleaning routine for your Invisalign aligners. We recommend cleaning them twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of clear, non-abrasive soap. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive and may scratch the surface of the aligners. Rinse the aligners thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any soap residue.

In addition to daily cleaning, it’s important to soak your aligners in a denture or Invisalign cleaning solution at least once a week. This helps remove any plaque or bacteria, keeping your aligners fresh and hygienic. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully for the cleaning solution, as some solutions may require a longer soaking time than others.

Tips for maintaining good oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial when wearing Invisalign aligners, as they can trap food particles and bacteria if not properly cared for. We recommend brushing and flossing your teeth thoroughly before inserting your aligners, and avoiding sugary or staining foods and beverages while wearing them. If you do consume something that could stain your aligners, be sure to remove them and rinse your mouth with water immediately.

It’s also important to keep your aligners in a safe place when they’re not in use. Store them in the provided case or a clean, dry container to prevent them from becoming damaged or lost. Avoid exposing your aligners to extreme temperatures, as this can warp the plastic and affect their fit.

Common issues and troubleshooting tips for Invisalign users

Despite the many benefits of Invisalign, there are a few common issues that users may encounter. One of the most frequent problems is aligners that feel tight or uncomfortable. This can be a sign that your teeth are moving as intended, but it can also indicate that the aligners need to be adjusted. If you experience persistent discomfort, contact your dentist to have the aligners checked and, if necessary, adjusted.

Another common issue is aligners that become stained or discoloured. This can be caused by consuming certain foods and beverages, or by not cleaning the aligners properly. To prevent staining, avoid dark-coloured drinks, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. Another way to prevent staining is to thoroughly clean your aligners after each use.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How often should I wear my Invisalign aligners?

A: It is recommended to wear your Invisalign aligners for a minimum of 22 hours per day. They should be removed only for eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth.

Q: Can I eat and drink while wearing my Invisalign aligners?

A: No, you should remove your Invisalign aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Consuming food or beverages while wearing the aligners can damage them and trap particles that can lead to tooth decay.

Q: How long does the Invisalign treatment typically take?

A: The duration of Invisalign treatment can vary depending on the complexity of your case. The average treatment time is 12 to 18 months.

Q: Can I play sports while wearing my Invisalign aligners?

A: Yes, you can wear your Invisalign aligners while playing most sports, but it’s important to remove them for contact sports to prevent damage to the aligners or injury to your mouth.

Q: How do I clean my Invisalign aligners?

A: We recommend cleaning your Invisalign aligners twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of clear, non-abrasive soap, and soaking them in a denture or Invisalign cleaning solution at least once a week.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.