Between the removable aligners, lack of dietary restrictions, and easy oral hygiene regimens, Invisalign has earned a reputation for being relatively hassle-free. Of course, there are still a few responsibilities that come with this discreet orthodontic treatment, including caring for your aligners properly. Although they are custom-made just for you and crafted from see-through, high-quality plastic, they can become warped and stained if you adopt the wrong habits. To prevent that from happening, read on to learn the dos and don’ts of caring for clear aligners!
DON’T Use Hot Water to Clean Your Trays
As mentioned above, your Invisalign clear aligners are crafted from high-quality plastic. However, they can warp if you use hot water to rinse them. That’s why it’s so important to check that the water is room-temperature before you clean them!
DO Brush and Floss Before Putting Your Aligners Back In
If you clean your aligners but not your teeth, it won’t take long for your trays to take on a yellow look. Pigmented stains are difficult to remove, which is why it’s best to take proactive measures to avoid discoloration altogether. That starts with brushing and flossing before putting your aligners back in!
DON’T Leave Your Trays Out in the Open
Whether you’re out at a restaurant or enjoying a meal at home, it can be tempting to place your aligners on the table. Remember: this is one of the most common ways patients misplace their trays! Instead of leaving them out in the open, rinse them off before placing them in their designated storage case.
DO Plan Ahead
If you’re working in an office, grabbing lunch with friends, or heading out of town, make sure to plan ahead! Having a small bag with travel-sized oral hygiene products can make cleaning your teeth and aligners on-the-go significantly easier. If you have plans to travel, then make sure to pack all of the trays you need to stay on-track with your treatment plan.
DON’T Drink Anything (Including Coffee) With Your Aligners In
It can be quite tempting to keep your aligners in while enjoying beverages like coffee. However, dark-colored beverages like this can stain your trays. Plus, the sugar in additives like creamer can cling to your teeth, increasing your chances of developing cavities. Simply put, always remove your aligners when drinking anything other than water.
About the Orthodontist
Dr. Alex J. Johnson’s 30+ year career includes numerous achievements, from earning his dental doctorate at Washington University to obtaining his master’s and Orthodontic Certificate. He has also undergone advanced training with world-renowned institutions (like the Pankey Institute), earned his Board Certification in Dental Sleep Medicine, and maintained active memberships with professional organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists. If you would like to find out if you’re a candidate for Invisalign or have a question about life with clear aligners, visit his website or call (727) 786-7550.