Invisalign Care Tips for a Healthy Smile
So, you’ve started your Invisalign® journey—congratulations! A straighter, healthier smile is on its way. But to make sure you get the most out of your treatment, it’s essential to take good care of your aligners. After all, your aligners work hard to shift your teeth into place, so keeping them clean, clear, and in tip-top shape is a must.
If you’re wondering how to do that, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with some easy, practical tips to keep your Invisalign aligners (and your smile!) in great condition.
1. Clean Your Aligners Daily
Your Invisalign aligners spend a lot of time in your mouth, which means they’re exposed to bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Rinse them with lukewarm water whenever you remove them, and clean them thoroughly at least once a day using a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild, unscented soap. Avoid using toothpaste—it can scratch the aligners and make them cloudy.
2. Stick to Your 22-Hour Wear Time
For Invisalign to do its job, you need to wear your aligners for about 22 hours a day. Only remove them for eating, drinking anything other than water, or cleaning. Staying consistent will help your treatment progress on schedule.
3. Store Aligners Properly
When you’re not wearing your aligners, keep them in their protective case. This reduces the risk of misplacing them or exposing them to germs. Never wrap your aligners in napkins—many patients accidentally throw them away this way!
4. Avoid Staining
Drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine can stain your aligners. Always remove them before consuming anything that might discolor them. If stains do occur, Invisalign cleaning crystals or specialized cleaning solutions can help restore their clarity.
5. Keep Your Teeth Clean
Before putting your aligners back in after meals, be sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. Food particles and plaque can get trapped between your teeth and the aligners, leading to discoloration and even cavities.
Invisalign Treatment at Curtis Family Dentistry in Mooresville and Troutman, NC
At Curtis Family Dentistry, Dr. Will Curtis, Dr. Alyssa F. Drake, and Dr. Chad Dickerson are dedicated to helping you achieve a straighter, healthier smile with Invisalign. Serving Mooresville and Troutman, NC, our team provides expert guidance and personalized care throughout your Invisalign journey. If you have questions about Invisalign care or are ready to start your treatment, schedule a visit with us today! Let’s keep your smile—and your aligners—shining bright.