How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners

Custom Invisalign® aligners need proper care and maintenance to function well throughout the treatment. The dentist will provide a series of clear trays. These aligners are made of BPA-free plastic. Keeping them in top shape can help them perform well. Here are the ways you can care for your Invisalign aligners.

Proper cleaning

Cleaning these trays will take a few minutes. The patient must maintain this care habit when brushing. A retainer brush or toothbrush can do the job. The following are the standard steps in cleaning Invisalign aligners:

• Place a towel underneath the faucet. Rinse the aligner in lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water to prevent warping.
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or retainer brush to clean the aligners. Gentle, circular motions can clean the whole aligner. Please refrain from using toothpaste because it is abrasive. The scratches left on the trays will encourage tartar and plaque buildup.
• Check the aligner for calcium buildup. A white film on the aligner is a sign to watch out for.
• Cleaning the aligner means that the patient must remove calcium or tartar and saliva.
• Once there is calcium buildup, soak the Invisalign aligner in a cleaning solution and follow the instructions.
• Wear the aligner as soon as the cleaning process is over.

Proper care

It is important to clean the Invisalign aligners when flossing and brushing. Keeping this habit consistent is part of the aligner care routine. Removing these trays is necessary when eating and drinking. Some patients prefer removing them while engaging in contact sports. Taking them off can prevent staining or damage.

Choose a cleansing solution without harsh ingredients. Doing so will prevent aligner corrosion. The dentist can recommend ideal products. Refrain from soaking the aligners in mouthwash to prevent staining. Mouthwashes with alcohol can also damage the aligners.

Changing aligners

Consistency in changing the aligners will straighten the teeth on time. Clean the old aligner first before putting it back in its case. Wearing it again is possible. Storing the used aligner bacteria-free will prevent bacteria accumulation and odor.

Possible issues

Studies reveal that patients like Invisalign aligners because of the comfortable and discreet treatment. Any level of pain while wearing them is a red flag. It is ideal to tell the dentist right away about the discomfort. These aligners are made of resin. Hot or warm water will warp them. The aligners will end up ill-fitting.

If patients accidentally rinse the aligners in hot or warm water, they should bring them to the dentist. Checking the aligners at the clinic will determine if there is any deformity. Remember to refrain from drinking colored beverages while wearing them. These drinks will distort them.

Always remember to wear the aligners after eating or brushing. This practice will ensure the effectiveness of the Invisalign treatment. A reminder system can help during busy days. Forgetting to do so can delay one’s dental straightening. Put the aligners in a case when taking them off. This habit will prevent damaging or losing them, which will have expensive consequences.