4 Everyday Things You Should Do to Keep Your Invisalign Aligners Clear

Are you going to straighten your teeth with Invisalign? Most likely, one of the factors that appealed to you is that these aligners are clear and discreet, so it may surprise you to learn that, unless you care for them every day, the plastic can become scratched, stained, or otherwise harmed. Even though you replace them every two weeks, they can still show signs of damage. As a result, your aligners can stand out just as much as traditional braces.

So, how should you take care of your Invisalign aligners? Follow these simple tips to keep them clear and pristine!

Take Your Aligners Out When You Eat or Drink

Each time you eat or drink anything other than water, you must remove your aligners for several reasons. The plastic is not durable enough to handle biting and chewing and will scratch if you leave your aligners in for meals and snacks. Plus, most food and beverages come with some amount of coloration and could stain the plastic. Even other clear liquids can leave residue and bacteria behind, which can discolor your aligners and potentially harm your smile; only water will not negatively affect your aligners.

Brush and Floss Your Teeth

After you’re done eating or drinking, it’s essential to brush and floss your teeth. Trapping bits of food, sugar, and plaque not only increases your risk of cavities and infection, but also can prevent your aligners from fitting properly, impacting your treatment plan. Fortunately, brushing and flossing take only a few minutes and will protect your smile and your aligners from harm.

Clean Your Aligners with a Soft Toothbrush and Clear Soap

Even if you take immaculate care of your teeth, your aligners can accumulate plaque and slight staining from just being in your mouth. Although you should rinse your aligners throughout the day in warm (but not hot) water, you also need to brush them once a day, preferably before bed. Using a soft toothbrush, gently scrub the aligners with a clear, mild soap and lukewarm water. Do not use your toothpaste because it is too abrasive and can leave scratch marks behind.

Store Your Aligners in the Case

When you don’t have your aligners in your mouth, make sure you safely store them in the case. These clear trays can be easily misplaced or lost if you set them on a napkin or on the counter. Also, keeping them in the protective case can prevent other unnecessary damage.

In the end, these easy steps are a small price to pay to straighten your teeth with clear aligners. As long as you follow these tips, your smile should shine throughout treatment and end with your own perfectly aligned set of pearly whites.

About the Practice

Amherst Dental Group is proud to serve the Williamsville area and surrounding communities. Our six dentists are dedicated to providing the most cutting-edge treatment. Any patient who undergoes Invisalign treatment at Amherst Dental Group receives free teeth whitening for life! If you would like to schedule an Invisalign consultation to learn more about this life-changing treatment, contact our practice online or call us at 716-689-8882.