When you have started using the world-famous Invisalign aligner to straighten your teeth, you will likely feel on top of the world.
However, while this option for straightening your teeth offers many benefits, there are also some tips that those who are wearing the aligners need to follow. These will ensure that your teeth are kept in good condition and that the realignment goes as planned.
So, what are those tips? Read on to find out!
Clean your aligners regularly
Just like your teeth, your aligners need to be cleaned regularly to prevent bacteria building up. When you take out your aligners, rinse them under running water to remove any saliva or food particles. Try to brush them gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or cleaning solution to remove any remaining debris. Avoid using hot water or toothpaste, which can damage the aligners and may even cause some staining or, in the worst-case scenario, may cause them to warp out of shape. After cleaning, rinse the aligners thoroughly and dry them with a clean, soft towel before putting them back in your mouth.
If you want your Invisalign London to have a minty fresh taste, there is now a cleaning solution that you can soak them in for 15 minutes a day that will clean them and leave them tasting and smelling great!
Take them out when you eat
For the survival of the aligners, it’s essential that you remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food particles and coloured beverages, such as coffee or red wine, can stain the aligners or cause bacteria to grow. If you need to drink something other than water while wearing your aligners, make sure to remove them and rinse your mouth and the aligners before putting them back in.
Store your aligners correctly
No, you cannot throw your aligners into your bag or your coat pocket when they are not in use!
When you’re not wearing your aligners, it’s essential to store them in the carry case that they came in to prevent them from getting lost or damaged. Always carry your case with you so that you can keep your aligners safe when you’re not wearing them. Avoid leaving your aligners out in the open, as this can expose them to bacteria and other harmful substances.
Avoid exposing your aligners to heat
As mentioned before, heat can damage your aligners, so it’s essential to avoid exposing them to high temperatures. Don’t leave your aligners in a hot car or in direct sunlight, and avoid using hot water to clean them. If your aligners become warped or misshapen, they may not fit properly and could compromise your treatment.
Follow your orthodontist’s instructions
Your orthodontic team will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your invisible aligners. Follow these instructions closely to ensure the success of your treatment. If you have any queries about how to care for your aligners, don’t hesitate to ask your orthodontist for guidance.
Also, in most cases, a set of orthodontic aligners will come with a downloadable app for a smartphone. Using this, you can send your orthodontist photos of your smile, so they can assess how it is going. They can also use the app to send you tips, meaning that you won’t have to go to the dental surgery that you are working with to get these tips, thus saving you time and money.