How to Clean Your Invisalign Retainers for Optimal Oral Hygiene

If you are one of the many people who wear Invisalign, then you know how important it is to keep your retainers clean. Not only do they help keep your teeth straight, but they also play a crucial role in oral hygiene. In this blog post, we will discuss how to clean your Invisalign retainers for optimal oral hygiene.

What Does Invisalign Do?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that helps to straighten teeth without the use of traditional metal braces. The clear aligners are made of a smooth, comfortable plastic that is virtually invisible when worn. This treatment consists of a series of clear aligners that are worn for at least 22 hours per day.  As you progress through each aligner, your teeth will gradually shift into place.

Invisalign is an excellent choice for people who are looking to straighten their teeth without metal braces. Metal braces can be uncomfortable and difficult to keep clean. Invisalign allows you to straighten your teeth without anyone knowing that you are undergoing treatment.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

The length of Invisalign treatment varies depending on the individual. However, most people can expect to complete treatment within 12-18 months.

Benefits

There are many benefits to choosing retainers over traditional metal braces. The aligner system is:

• Removable: You can take your aligners out to eat, drink, brush, and floss. This makes it easy to maintain good oral hygiene during treatment.
• Clear: The clear aligners are virtually invisible when worn, so no one will know that you are undergoing treatment.
• Comfortable: The smooth, comfortable plastic is gentle on your gums and cheeks.
• Safe: Invisalign is made of FDA-approved materials that are safe for your mouth.

The Best Candidates for Invisalign

Invisalign is a great choice for people who are looking to straighten their teeth without metal braces. It is also a good choice for people who have mild to moderate crowding or spacing issues. Invisalign is not recommended for people with severe dental problems such as bite problems or teeth that are rotated out of position.

How to Clean Your Invisalign Retainers

It is important to keep your retainers clean in order to prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar. Tartar is difficult to remove and can lead to gum disease.

Remember, when it comes to your retainers, there’s a difference between cleaning and rinsing. Rinsing your aligners may make them appear slightly cleaner, but you haven’t done anything to address the unseen bacteria that can build up. Follow these easy tips from Healthline to properly clean your aligners.

The following is the basic cleansing process listed on the Invisalign website for nightly cleaning:

• Rinse your aligners with water every night.
• Brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush (not the one you use to brush your teeth daily) and gentle, clear liquid soap to remove any debris or food particles that have accumulated during the day.
• Rinse thoroughly after brushing.
• Store in a protective case whenever they aren’t in use.

Risks of Not Cleaning Your Retainers

Not cleaning your Invisalign trays can lead to a number of problems. Bacteria, plaque, and tartar can build up on your aligners and lead to gum disease. In addition, food particles that are not removed from your aligners can cause bad breath.

Cleaning your Invisalign trays is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Be sure to brush your aligners every night and rinse them thoroughly. In addition, be sure to store your aligners in a protective case when they are not in use. By following these simple tips, you can keep your aligners clean and your smile healthy.

Eating with Invisalign

You do not need to brush your teeth after every meal when wearing Invisalign. To eat with Invisalign, simply remove your aligners and enjoy your meal. However, it is a good idea to rinse your mouth with water before putting your aligners back in your mouth and brush your teeth at least twice a day.

As far as drinks go, you can drink with Invisalign in your mouth. However, it is important to note that beverages that can stain your teeth such as coffee, tea, and red wine can also stain your aligners.

Straighten Your Teeth with Stonebrook Family Dental

At Stonebrook Family Dental, we are proud to offer Invisalign treatment to our patients. Invisalign is a great way to straighten your teeth without metal braces. If you are interested in Invisalign, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams!