7 Expert-Approved Tips on How to Maintain Invisalign Aligners

Do you want to straighten your teeth with Invisalign? You should be excited! Invisalign treatment in Chicago, Illinois, uses transparent and customized aligners to correct gapped, overcrowded, and misaligned teeth. Unlike metal braces, Invisalign treatment from A Brush Above Family Dentistry allows you to perfect your smile comfortably, discreetly, and conveniently. 

While Invisalign aligners are transformative, you must take good care of them to get the best results. Drs. Marcella Guzman, Philip Fidel, and Rosa Sinno are here to guide you on optimal Invisalign maintenance. 

1. Clean Your Aligners Daily

Clean your aligners every morning and evening with a soft toothbrush and clear, non-abrasive soap. Avoid toothpaste. Toothpaste is good for your teeth, but not your Invisalign aligners. Most brands of toothpaste contain abrasive substances that can damage your aligners. Regular cleaning removes plaque and stains, keeping your aligners transparent and infection-free. 

2. Rinse Whenever You Remove Them

While you wear your aligners almost full-time, you’ll sometimes remove them, especially when eating or cleaning your teeth. Once you remove your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water to prevent saliva and plaque buildup. Never use hot water as it can warp the plastic. Also, soak your aligners regularly in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a denture-cleaning solution to keep them fresh and clear.

3. Brush and Floss Your Teeth

Whether you are straightening your teeth with Invisalign or braces, good oral hygiene is a no-miss. Brush and floss after every meal before reinserting your aligners. You can also use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene prevents food particles and bacteria from being trapped under the aligners. 

4. Avoid Eating or Drinking While Wearing Them

To ensure you stay on track with your treatment, wear the aligners for at least 22 hours daily. However, remove them when eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents stains and damage, and it would be uncomfortable to eat or drink with them intact. 

5. Store Aligners Safely

Use the provided case whenever you take out your aligners. Leaving them exposed can lead to damage, misplacement, or contamination. Keep your aligners away from your pet’s reach to prevent accidental damage or loss. Also, avoid wrapping your aligners in a napkin or tissue, as they can easily be misplaced or thrown away. 

6. Handle with care

Invisalign aligners are created from resilient thermoplastic but can bend or crack if handled inappropriately. Always use both hands when removing or reinserting your aligners. Please don’t drop your aligners; refrain from bending or twisting them. 

7. Regular Dental Checkups

Visit your dentist or orthodontist as scheduled for checkups and to get professional guidance on keeping your aligners in top shape.

Dr. Marcella Guzman

Dr. Marcella Guzman is an admired dental professional renowned for her unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care, with a rich background in biology and sociology. Since graduating from The University of Illinois Dental School in 1994, she has enhanced her skills through extensive continuing education, specializing in cutting-edge technologies such as Cerec 3-D, sleep apnea, Invisalign, and laser dentistry. Her dedication to staying up-to-date on the latest advancements ensures that her patients receive top-notch care. A distinguished member of The American Dental Association and Chicago Dental Society, Dr. Guzman's wealth of experience, coupled with her compassionate approach, establishes her as a trusted specialist in the field of dentistry.   

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