If you’re looking for a more discrete alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign is an excellent option. Instead of having metal brackets attached to your teeth, your dentist will provide clear aligner trays that fit snuggly over them to gently reposition them. For this therapy to be successful, however, you’ll have to take care of your Invisalign trays properly. If you’re not sure what that looks like, keep reading to learn what you can do, and avoid, to keep yours in tip-top shape!

DO Remove Invisalign for Meals

It can be awfully tempting to avoid the embarrassment of removing your aligners in front of others by leaving them in your mouth when you eat. Unfortunately, this could damage them in a few different ways. Firstly, you could discolor them if you’re consuming ingredients that stain. In addition to that, it’s also possible for them to bend or break under the force exerted by your chewing.

You can avoid hurting your Invisalign by removing it for meals. Be sure to keep their carrying case with you so you have a safe place to store it so that you won’t accidentally throw it out with the garbage afterward!

DON’T Let Invisalign Dry Out

For your Invisalign treatment to remain on track, you’ll need to wear the clear trays for 22 hours daily. That means there shouldn’t be long periods where you remove them and allow them to dry out. Doing so can injure your aligners because they’re more likely to crack without moisture. Furthermore, dangerous plaque-inducing bacteria can thrive in dry conditions which can leave your orthodontics looking and smelling less-than-ideal.

DO Soak Invisalign Daily

While it’s important to keep your aligners in your mouth the majority of the time, you should remove and soak them daily. Because they’re in place for such long periods, some food particles and unwanted germs will inevitably stick around. Soaking the trays in a special cleaning solution, like Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, will eradicate harmful microbes without causing any abrasions in the plastic.

DON’T Smoke with Invisalign

Cigarettes and oral health generally don’t mix, and you’re not much safe switching to vapes. Tobacco products contain nicotine which can leave your Invisalign with a cloudy coating and unpleasant odor. On top of that, it can damage your teeth because it restricts blood flow and oxygen levels so it’s harder for your body to deliver necessary nutrients.

Taking care of your Invisalign appropriately keeps them in great shape so that you can continue your journey toward a straighter smile!

About the Practice

The team of dentists at Kraft & Schrott Dental Associates is proud to provide a full array of oral care services to you and the entire family, including Invisalign therapy. They work cohesively together to design a treatment plan to meet your individual needs and preferences. With state-of-the-art technology onsite, you’re sure to receive up-to-date treatment that gives you long-lasting results. If you’re frustrated by crooked teeth, you’re welcome to request a consultation appointment on the website or by calling (617) 227-4924.