Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment because the clear, removable trays allow for your smile to straighten beautifully without the hassle of traditional braces. However, our Durham NC orthodontist reminds you that Invisalign trays require some maintenance as well! If you do not regularly clean your trays they can become discolored or develop a foul odor. Read on for tips to keep your trays clean and bright!
Our Durham NC Orthodontist Reminds You to Brush Regularly with Invisalign
#1 – Brush & Floss Your Teeth
The number one oral hygiene tip to remember from our Durham NC orthodontist while wearing Invisalign is to continue to brush and floss your teeth. It is important to brush and floss after every meal because any debris left behind will be trapped by your trays once you put them back on. If sugars and bacteria are trapped, the likelihood of developing cavities throughout treatment will increase.
#2 – Remove & Rinse Your Aligners
Brushing and rinsing your aligners before putting them back in after meals is also recommended. You can brush out your aligners just like your teeth with your toothbrush and toothpaste. Some toothpastes, such as whitening solutions, may be too abrasive and cause streaking in your aligners. If this occurs our orthodontist in Durham recommends switching to a different toothpaste.
#3 – Stick to Water
When wearing your trays be sure to not eat or drink anything except for water. Food and beverages will stain your trays. Trapped food particles are often responsible for smelly trays as well.
Try These Tips from Our Durham NC Orthodontist to Keep Your Invisalign Trays Bacteria-Free
#4 – Denture & Retainer Cleaners
Efferdent, Polident, and Retainer Brite are all examples of denture or retainer cleaners that you can use while you have your trays out during meals. Soak your aligners in the cleaning mixtures for 10-15 minutes, and then rinse out remaining particles before you reinsert them.
#5 – Antibacterial Liquid Soap
A simple, cost-effective cleaning strategy is simply hand washing your aligners with liquid soap. Dish or hand soap will work, but our Durham NC orthodontist recommends you opt for a clear soap to avoid staining from a colored alternative.
For more ideas about how to best clean your Invisalign trays call our orthodontist in Durham! Our staff at our Durham NC Wilson Orthodontics is happy to offer more suggestions to keep your smile bright throughout your Invisalign treatment.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to orthodontics, feel free to contact Wilson Orthodontics, with a convenient orthodontic office location near Durham NC, by clicking here or by calling 919.383.7423.