If you regularly visit the dentist for cleanings and check-ups, and to have your aligners adjusted, you probably think brushing your teeth and gums is enough to keep your Invisalign clean and free of buildup.
Even if you take on that responsibility, though, you may still wind up with stains and buildup.
With the continued buildup over time, this may start to make you question the quality of your Invisalign. Is it poor quality? Did you not get as thorough a cleaning as you thought?
There may also be errors in cleaning Invisalign that you are not aware of. To help you uncover these mistakes, we’re going to walk you through the best cleaning practices around. Specifically, we’re going to touch on the common problems that cleaners run into while cleaning Invisalign.
Let’s begin!
Contents
1. Not Cleaning Them Often Enough
One of the most common errors people make when cleaning their Invisalign is not cleaning them often enough. You should clean your aligners every day, preferably after every meal. If you don’t clean your aligners regularly, bacteria and food particles can build up on them, leading to bad breath and dental issues.
Make sure you have a plan for cleaning your aligners every day. You can use mild soap and water or a special Invisalign cleaning solution to keep your aligners clean and fresh. Remember, the more often you clean them, the better they look and feel.
2. Using Toothpaste
Another of the many common errors in cleaning Invisalign is toothpaste. Toothpaste can be abrasive and may scratch your aligners, making them more visible and less effective.
Toothpaste has ingredients that can leave a residue on your aligners, making them more prone to bacterial growth. Be sure to check with professional orthodontics for adults for the correct solution and Invisalign cleaning tools to buy.
3. Using Hot Water
Heat can damage and make the plastic of Invisalign brittle, just like with many other plastics. Never use hot water or any heat when cleaning Invisalign aligners. Instead, use only cold or lukewarm water.
Make sure to rinse away any debris or soap residue well, then leave the Invisalign to air dry in a cool and dry environment. If they need to be dried more quickly, using a soft cloth to pat them dry is the safest method.
Do not use heat to help with faster drying as this can also cause damage. Taking care of Invisalign aligners correctly is essential to keeping them in good condition and the best way to avoid common errors is to always use cold water and a soft cloth.
4. Not Brushing Your Teeth Before Putting Them Back In
When you take your aligners out to eat or clean them, it’s important to brush your teeth before putting them back in. If you don’t, bacteria and food particles can become trapped between your teeth and the aligners, leading to bad breath and dental issues.
Your Invisalign cleaning routine should include brushing your teeth thoroughly before putting your aligners back in. This will help keep your aligners clean, and fresh and your teeth healthy.
5. Using Mouthwash
Using mouthwash is one of the most commonly adopted methods of cleaning Invisalign but it does come with its own set of errors. One of the most common errors is that people often use mouthwash with high alcohol content.
This causes the Invisalign to become brittle and cracked, leading to poor oral hygiene. Some people forget to dilute the mouthwash before using it, which can easily damage Invisalign.
Instead of using mouthwash, opt for a gentle cleaning solution that is specifically designed for Invisalign. These solutions are gentle on the aligners and will help keep them looking clean and clear.
6. Not Soaking Them Regularly
When trays are not soaked regularly, performance-inhibiting bacteria may begin to grow on the trays. Moreover, plaque and tartar can build up on the trays and cause discoloration. These deposits can also cause discomfort and lead to gum irritation.
To avoid these common errors, it is important to soak Invisalign trays in a cleaning solution every day and night. The soak should last at least 20-30 minutes. If possible, brushing the trays with a soft-bristled brush can help remove stubborn buildup.
Additionally, soaking the trays with several different solutions such as an alcohol or vinegar solution on an intermittent basis can also help reduce the growth of bacteria and plaque. You can set a reminder on your phone or create a schedule to help you remember to soak your aligners.
7. Leaving Them Exposed to Air
Leaving your Invisalign exposed to air can lead to a buildup of bacteria, dirt, and grime, as well as cause discoloration and other damage. Aligners exposed to air can become dry and brittle, which can damage them and make them less effective.
To avoid this, store your aligners in the case provided to help keep them safe and prevent any deterioration, and take them out of your mouth only when you need to, such as to clean them or to eat.
It’s important to always keep them in your mouth when eating or drinking to protect them from air and staining. Furthermore, try to consistently rinse your aligners with cool water when you take them off to ensure they do not dry out if you do not have time to brush.
Stop Making Errors in Cleaning Invisalign Now
Taking care of Invisalign aligners is essential for a successful treatment. Common errors in cleaning Invisalign such as not brushing or using the wrong cleaning products should be avoided. Error-free Invisalign cleaning is vital in achieving the desired results.
To avoid missteps, it is important to know what to do and what mistakes to avoid. By following the manufacturer’s instructions, proper cleaning routines, and dental care advice, users can easily maintain the hygiene of their Invisalign and enjoy the full benefits of the product. Try it today and unlock a beautiful, healthy, and confident smile!
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