If you hope to achieve a smile full of straight, aligned teeth, you have many options, including braces and Invisalign aligners. These are the two most common treatments, and nowadays, most people opt for clear aligner trays because they are less noticeable.
However, once you commit to Invisalign aligners, it is essential to take care of them the right way. Otherwise, you could damage them, resulting in replacement costs, delayed treatment, and even the need to completely recreate all future aligners to account for the progress lost during a damaged aligner period.
Taking care of Invisalign aligners requires a bit of time every day, but it is not a complex process. Patients simply must be sure to do the following tasks.
Like real teeth, the Invisalign aligner trays will gradually develop a bacterial coating simply by being present in the mouth. Gently clean the aligners by rinsing them every time they are removed. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to (very) gently brush the aligners, but avoid toothpaste, as the abrasives inside can damage the trays.
Aligner trays must be rigid enough to gradually force the teeth into a new position. As a result, they do not have enough flexural strength to handle ripping, shearing, or collision forces without breaking. Always store Invisalign aligners in their case when not in use, and be careful not to drop them or place anything on top of them that could distort their shape.
While Invisalign should be worn for 22 hours each day, patients must always remove them to eat. The aligners are not meant to bear the biting force required to eat and can become damaged or deformed. Use mealtime as an opportunity to rinse the aligners to keep them fresh and clean.
Keeping Invisalign trays clean is important, but patients should never use hot water to do so. The heat from the water can cause the aligners to warp, leading to improper pressure on the teeth that can alter the planned trajectory of the alignment. Use cool water any time that the aligners must be rinsed or cleansed, and follow the dentist’s instructions for any cleansing tablets or other alternatives to keep the trays clean.
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Each Invisalign tray is usually worn for about two weeks before being swapped to the next set. This is good news because it means you do not need to keep up a vigilant regimen for months to ensure that the device does not break. However, it is still vital to be careful with the trays because they are susceptible to damage from hot water, vigorous brushing, and even improper storage.
If you have any questions about how to take care of your Invisalign trays, contact our office. We will help you do everything right!
Request an appointment or call Cholla Family Dentistry at 480-359-3513 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.
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