Invisalign is a modern orthodontic alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign consists of a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually straighten the teeth and correct orthodontic issues. A primary benefit of Invisalign is that it is virtually invisible, hence its name. For that reason, many patients prefer this orthodontic method as opposed to braces. In addition, the aligners are removable and are taken out during eating, drinking, brushing and flossing for improved oral hygiene. With that said, Invisalign users will have to make a few adjustments when wearing their aligners. We have put together 5 tips that every Invisalign patient at our dental clinic in Saskatoon should know.
Don’t Forget to Wear Your Aligners
The fact that Invisalign aligners are removable is two-edged. As mentioned above, Invisalign in Saskatoon is removable meaning there are no food restrictions which give patients the freedom to enjoy all their favourite foods. It is also easier to maintain a good oral hygiene routine with Invisalign, unlike traditional braces.
On the contrary, problems can arise when patients forget to re-insert their aligners once they have been removed for eating or cleaning. A major rule for wearing Invisalign is that they must be kept in the mouth for a minimum of 20 to 22 her a day. Failing to comply, will result in prolonged treatment time and additional visits to your Saskatoon dentist.
To prevent patients from forgetting to wear their aligners, we suggest they make the habit of brushing their teeth and cleaning their aligners immediately after eating. This simple solution will remind patients to put their aligners back in right away.
Clean Your Aligners Properly
Every morning patients should remove their trays and thoroughly clean them and their teeth. During the night, bacteria can build up on the trays, hence why it is crucial to begin your day by cleaning your teeth and trays. Be sure to do the same every evening before bed as well.
Always rinse your trays when you remove them from your mouth. Using clear anti-bacterial soap and a soft-bristled toothbrush is a helpful strategy to remove plaque and bacteria. The aligners should also be soaked every day in a denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Once they are finished soaking, an extra toothbrush (one that is not used to brush the teeth) can be used to eliminate residual plaque or food particles. Again, the aligners must be rinsed before re-inserting them into your mouth.
Note, always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in your mouth. Wearing your aligners with food particles lodged between your teeth will trap them inside the trays and cause cavities and other dental issues.
Never Leave Your Invisalign Trays Out in the Open
You should never leave your Invisalign trays out in the open. Not only will leaving them exposed cause bacteria buildup, but they are also easier to lose or misplace. Storing your Invisalign trays in a tissue is a risky idea as others may mistake them for garbage and discard them. Also, leaving you trays out in the open is easier for pets to get a hold of. If you want to avoid finding out your aligners have been used as a chew toy for your dog, keep them in their case. This can prevent you from having to visit your dental office in Saskatoon for replacement aligners.
Don’t use Toothpaste to Clean Your Trays
Toothpaste is wonderful for your teeth, but the same can’t be said for your aligners. Using toothpaste to clean your aligners can result in discoloration and cause damage due to its abrasive ingredients. In addition, don’t use coloured or scented soaps to clean your aligners as this can also stain your aligners and leave you with a fowl lingering taste in your mouth.
Your Mouth Will Need Time to Adjust
Your mouth will need some time to adjust to your aligners, but thankfully not as much time as braces in Saskatoon would require. You won’t experience gum irritation or discomfort caused by metal wires or permanent brackets, but you will have to adjust to removing and replacing your aligners as well as speaking with them. Once your mouth adjusts to the aligners, you should not encounter any issues.