People with straight teeth are 21 percent more likely to be perceived as happy and 47 percent more likely to be perceived as being healthy. Do you want people to see you as happy and healthy? Do you want to feel this way yourself? If so, straightening your teeth is a great place to start.
Of all the teeth-straightening methods out there, Invisalign is one of the best options to consider. Some people are hesitant about this treatment, though, because they’re worried about maintenance.
If this sounds like you, read on for our complete guide on how to clean Invisalign.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a type of orthodontic treatment. It involves a set of clear braces or aligners that are worn over the teeth.
Rather than dealing with a series of metal and wires, the patient simply pops the aligners on their teeth. These braces then slowly and gently push and pull the teeth into the desired position.
Invisalign Benefits
There are lots of reasons to use Invisalign over other orthodontic procedures. The following are some of the top benefits they have to offer:
- Improved oral health (straight teeth are less likely to develop cavities and other dental issues)
- Discrete teeth-straightening
- Increased comfort compared to braces and other orthodontic treatments
- Shorter treatment time and fewer check-ups than regular braces
Invisalign aligners may be more precise and yield better results than traditional braces, too. This is because they’re designed for your teeth and with your specific goals in mind.
How to Clean Invisalign
Okay, you’re convinced that Invisalign might be a good choice for you. However, you might still be on the fence about cleaning them and maintaining them.
If this is a concern for you, here are some tips that will help you keep your aligners in good shape:
Keep Cleaning Supplies on Hand
Start by making sure you have cleaning supplies at the ready. Stock up when you first get your Invisalign aligners so you’re always prepared and don’t have an excuse not to clean your aligners.
The following are some Invisalign cleaning essentials that you should always have on hand:
- Cleaning agents: There are a few different cleaning products specially designed for Invisalign, including a cleaning solution that contains rubbing alcohol and baking soda, as well as cleaning crystals that are dissolved in water
- Liquid soap: Some people prefer to use liquid antibacterial soap for a more budget-friendly cleaning product
- Soft-bristled toothbrush: A soft-bristled toothbrush works well for scrubbing away food residue, plaque, and other types of debris
Make sure you have a protective case for your aligners, too. Put them in the case whenever you’re not wearing them, even if you’re just taking them out for a couple of minutes.
Storing your aligners in a case will prevent dirt or debris from getting on them and getting into your mouth. It also saves you from accidentally misplacing them or throwing them away along with the remains of your lunch.
Avoid Harmful Cleaning Products
As you’re stocking up on these supplies, it’s also important to know what not to use to clean Invisalign.
Some products to avoid include denture cleaner, scented or dyed liquid soap, mouthwash (especially if it contains alcohol), and toothpaste.
These supplies all serve their own unique purposes. However, they’re not meant to clean Invisalign aligners. They can cause issues like discoloration or residue buildup, for example.
Know When to Clean and When to Rinse
There are times to thoroughly clean your Invisalign and times when a quick rinse with water will suffice.
In general, you can get away with simply rinsing your aligners with water after meals. You can also rinse them and pop them back in if you drink something during the day that’s not clear (such as coffee or tea, both of which can stain your aligners and cause your teeth to look discolored).
At night, though, you should make time to clean your Invisalign with a brush and dedicated cleaning product. Make it a regular part of your evening routine.
Regular nighttime cleaning gives you a chance to get rid of any lingering debris or food particles that have accumulated throughout the day. It also ensures you’re not spending the whole night straightening your teeth with dirty aligners, which could increase your chances of developing cavities or other issues.
How to Keep Teeth Clean with Invisalign
The good thing about Invisalign is that it’s easier to maintain good oral health while using them.
Compared to braces, people often have fewer cavities while using Invisalign because they can take them off to brush their teeth. As a result, they don’t have to worry about maneuvering around a bunch of wires and brackets.
That being said, it’s still important to keep your teeth clean during Invisalign treatment. Here are some tips that can help:
- Rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth after meals
- Floss at least once per day to further reduce plaque buildup between the teeth
- Don’t skip dentist appointments (regular cleanings will help you avoid neglecting any hard-to-reach areas and give you a chance to catch potential problems early)
These practices, paired with regular Invisalign cleanings, will help you ensure your teeth stay clean and healthy as they’re being straightened. It might seem a bit cumbersome at first. After a couple of weeks, though, it’ll become second nature.
Ready for Better Orthodontic Care?
Invisalign aligners are a great choice for those who want to straighten their teeth discreetly and see results faster. Now that you’re confident in your ability to clean Invisalign, are you ready to go ahead and give them a try?
If you’re located in or around Forth Worth and want to enjoy the benefits of Invisalign, we’re here to help you achieve your goals at Ahava Orthodontics. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book your first appointment.
