Invisalign Braces: 7 Tips on Taking Care of Your Aligners
Invisalign braces are a great way to improve your smile without having to deal with the hassle of traditional metal braces. However, Invisalign still requires some extra care and attention in order to keep them clean and free of bacteria. This will allow the Orthodontic Treatment in Columbia to work as effectively as possible and help you avoid any potential problems down the road.
But first, let’s talk about how Invisalign braces work and why care tips are needed in the first place. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth into place. You’ll need to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day and switch to a new set of aligners every two weeks or so.
Since the Invisalign aligners are removable, you’ll need to be extra diligent about keeping them clean. You also need to keep their container at all times to prevent them from getting lost. Here are some care tips to help you keep your Invisalign braces clean and in good condition.
#1 – Rinse your Invisalign aligners with lukewarm water before putting them in your mouth.
To help remove any bacteria or food particles that may be on the aligners, it’s important to give them a quick rinse with lukewarm water before putting them in. You can also use Invisalign’s cleaning crystals or a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush the aligners.
#2 – Be careful about what you eat and drink.
Since Invisalign aligners are removable, you don’t have to worry about food restrictions like you do with traditional braces. However, you should still be careful about what you eat and drink while wearing them or before putting them back in.
Hard and crunchy foods can damage the aligners, so it’s best to avoid them while wearing Invisalign braces. In addition, you need to brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in if you ate sticky foods or drank staining beverages, so the food won’t get transferred to your trays.
#3 – Soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning crystals every night.
In order to keep your Invisalign aligners clean and free of bacteria, it’s important to soak them in Invisalign cleaning crystals every night. These crystals are specifically designed to clean Invisalign aligners and help prevent the build-up of plaque and tartar.
If you don’t have Invisalign braces cleaning crystals, you can also soak the aligners in denture cleaner or mild dish soap. Just be sure to avoid using hot water, as this can damage the Invisalign aligners.
#4 – Brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in.
To help keep your Invisalign aligners clean and free of bacteria, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth before putting them back in. This will help remove any food particles or plaque that may have built up on your teeth while the aligners were out.
If you don’t have time to brush and floss before putting the aligners back in, you can at least rinse your mouth out with water. This will help remove any loose food particles or plaque that could transfer to the aligners and cause them to become stained or contaminated.
#5 – Don’t smoke while wearing Invisalign braces.
Smoking is bad for your teeth and gums no matter what, but it’s especially important to avoid smoking while wearing Invisalign aligners. The nicotine in cigarettes can cause the Invisalign aligners to become stained, and the heat from the smoke can cause them to warp.
#6 – Store your aligners in their case when you’re not wearing them.
To prevent your Invisalign aligners from getting lost or damaged, it’s important to store them in their case when you’re not wearing them. The Invisalign case is specifically designed to protect the aligners and keep them clean.
#7 – Attend your regular Invisalign check-ups.
In order to ensure that your Invisalign braces treatment is going as planned, it’s important to attend your regular Invisalign check-ups. These appointments allow your orthodontist to check on your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your Invisalign aligners. This will ensure that you are wearing the right set of aligners and that your treatment is on track.
Invisalign Braces in Colum bia or Chapin, South Carolina
Invisalign braces are becoming more and more popular each year as an alternative to metal braces. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners that are nearly invisible, making them a cosmetically appealing option for those who are self-conscious about their appearance. In addition, Invisalign braces are removable, so you can take them out to eat and brush, and there is also no painful adjustment period like there is with metal braces.
If you’re considering an Invisalign in Columbia, South Carolina, you need to go to the best Invisalign-certified provider! Dr. Leslie Pitner is undeniably South Carolina’s #1 Invisalign orthodontist. She has treated many patients for about 15 years and is recommended by many patients in her areas of service.
Dr. Pitner is not only an orthodontist but also a teacher and an author. Since she has studied Psychology as well, she wrote, “Improve Your Smile, Transform Your Life: A Guide to Orthodontics for Adults.” She knows that a smile can change your brain and your life in ways you may have never imagined. A confident smile can take you to places you never dreamed and the benefits continue to build over a lifetime.
Schedule a free consultation today and let Dr. Pitner today to discover how Invisalign can improve your smile! We have three offices in West Scott Rd. and Main St. Suite, Columbia, SC as well as at Old Bush River Road in Chapin, SC. Visit our website to know more about Invisalign, services we offer, and everything you need to know about us!
