Patients who want straighter teeth no longer have to rely on traditional braces to achieve a more beautiful smile. Invisalign® clear aligners now make it possible to straighten teeth with less discomfort while using a more discreet approach. These trays are easy to wear and care for but do come with simple suggestions for keeping the teeth as well as the trays clean.
Invisalign®trays are completely removable, which means patients who use them do not need any additional oral hygiene tools or techniques other than what is required for traditional brushing and flossing. However, when and how often brushing occurs will likely change during treatment.
Dental professionals recommend brushing at least twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. Flossing should also take place during one of these dental hygiene sessions. In addition, Invisalign® patients should brush their teeth after every meal.
The clear aligner trays must be removed when consuming anything other than pure water. This helps prevent damage and discoloration. However, if patients do not brush after eating or drinking and before putting the trays back in place, food particles could become trapped against the material and lead to staining. In addition, these particles and bacteria cannot be rinsed away from the tooth's surface when blocked by the trays, which increases the chances of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
Brushing and flossing teeth alone are not enough to keep aligner trays in good shape. Every night, patients should use a soft-bristled toothbrush and water to clean the trays thoroughly. In addition, most dentists recommend using an Invisalign®cleaning system or solution to help remove plaque buildup on the trays. This helps keep the aligners clear for an improved appearance while controlling odors as well.
The fact that the trays are removable makes eating and daily hygiene much simpler. However, it can be tempting to remove the appliances and leave them out for longer than is recommended. Doing so will slow down treatment progress. It is recommended that Invisalign® trays be worn for at least 22 hours every day, which means patients need to replace them as soon as possible after eating and brushing.
In general, no dietary changes are needed when using clear aligner trays. However, some patients may notice some discomfort, especially for the first few days after receiving a new set of trays. Dentists often recommend avoiding hard, tough, or chewy foods during treatment, as these can be difficult to enjoy and often make the discomfort worse. In addition, it can be beneficial to limit certain beverages, including:
Beverages with too much sugar can lead to cavities and others that are dyed or darker in color can stain teeth and the trays.
Invisalign® aligners are easy to use and easy to care for. Following these simple practices will help protect the trays and the patient's teeth for an improved treatment outcome. In addition, patients should see a dentist every six to eight weeks for evaluation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.thegalleryofsmiles.com or call Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles at (713) 979-4127 for an appointment in our Houston office.
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