Caring for your smile doesn’t stop while you are undergoing orthodontic treatment. In fact, it can become even more important to practice good dental care while straightening your smile. The last thing you want to do is face cavities, gum disease or stains when your teeth alignment goals have been reached.
When it comes to dental care during orthodontics, there is one treatment option that makes it far easier than traditional metal braces. At Gilreath Family Dentistry, we proudly recognize the overwhelming benefits of Invisalign clear aligner therapy. Not only is Invisalign barely noticeable to others, but it can alleviate the challenges that patients tend to encounter when trying to keep their smile clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Patients of Invisalign will find it easy to care for their teeth and gums during treatment. In fact, it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3:
#1 Take Your Trays Out
The first step is a big one. It distinguishes Invisalign from other fixed orthodontic appliances. Unlike metal braces, you can remove your Invisalign trays to brush and floss. You don’t have to navigate around brackets or buy special dental tools to reach underneath wires. Instead, you can brush and floss like you normally do. Another time to take your trays out is when you eat snacks and meals. This prevents food from getting stuck in your aligners and transferring to your teeth.
#2 Brush, Floss and Rinse Normally
The guidelines for brushing your teeth with Invisalign is the same as they would be if you were not in treatment. This includes brushing for two minutes, twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. Try your best to brush or at least rinse with water after meals, as this can prevent carbohydrates and sugars from getting locked behind your aligners when you put them back in.
Flossing your teeth is essential if you want to clean the areas in between your teeth (which typically makes up about 35% of your tooth surfaces). Since you can remove your aligners, you should have no trouble flossing effectively and correctly. Once you’re done, we recommend using a fluoride antibacterial mouthwash to ensure your mouth is as clean and fresh as possible before your aligners go back in.
#3 Clean Your Trays
Your only extra step with Invisalign involves cleaning your trays. Daily cleaning with a provided Invisalign cleaning solution or one that Dr. Gilreath recommends can keep your aligners free of bacteria build up. Your trays can harbor bacteria and food debris, which can sabotage your dental cleaning efforts if you don’t clean your trays as well. It is also a great way to ensure your breath stays fresh during Invisalign treatment.
For more tips on keeping a healthy mouth while undergoing Invisalign or Invisalign Teen, please call Gilreath Family Dentistry. We are Marietta’s most trusted Platinum Invisalign Provider.
Posted on behalf of Dr. Paul Gilreath IV,