Maintaining Your Oral Health with Invisalign: Tips and Best Practices

Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that offers a comfortable way to straighten teeth. It is currently the most popular choice for many as it provides an alternative method for metal wires and brackets. Nonetheless, like any other orthodontic treatment, maintaining oral health while undergoing the clear alignment treatment is crucial. Let's explore the tips and best practices you can implement to ensure your teeth stay healthy and radiant while using this treatment.

Cleaning the Aligners

Before you start cleaning your aligners, you need to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent environmental microorganisms from contaminating the dental trays. While cleaning them with fluoride toothpaste or even mild soap works just fine, for optimal results, you should invest in a special cleaning kit available for clear aligners.

In addition, a soft-bristled toothbrush, cotton swab, or even a piece of cloth should be used for cleaning. This is because hard bristle brushes can scratch away the plastic, making the trays transparent. Also, you need to clean the aligners before putting them back, at least twice per day after the meal. Not adhering to this can lead to the accumulation of plaque and food in the plastic tray, further promoting dental discolorations and cavities.

Managing Discomfort

It's common to experience discomfort when you start treatment. However, managing it effectively is also essential. The following are ways to manage it:

Over-the-counter Painkillers

To help counteract the pain, some of the painkillers you can use are ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen, and follow the dosage as recommended.

Use a Cold Compress Over the Painful Area

This helps not only the pain but also any swelling that is around the jaw. You can do this by holding an ice pack for 10 minutes until the pain subsides several times daily.

Use Orthodontic Wax

If the edges of your aligners are causing irritation, applying orthodontic wax can help ease the friction.

Maintaining Proper Oral Hygiene

During your treatment, you can help ensure that your aligners stay clean and clear by following the tips below:

• Floss your teeth after every meal and brush them twice every day.
• Use mouthwash to effectively remove any remaining bacteria or food debris within your mouth.
• Refrain from consuming any food or beverages other than water while wearing your aligners. This will help prevent any build-up on your teeth and aligners.
• Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for cleaning and check-ups to keep your mouth clean and healthy and to avoid any possible issues.

Following the tips and best practices mentioned above, along with choosing an experienced Invisalign dentist, will help you ensure proper teeth care while using clear aligners. Therefore, don't hesitate to Contact us at Nevada Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry for consultation or to schedule an appointment for your orthodontic treatment. Feel free to visit our About Us page to learn more about the top-notch dental care services that we offer.