How To Care For Your Invisalign Clear Aligners
Posted on: 23 July 2019
Invisalign offers an effective alternative to braces for anyone who wants straighter teeth. In order to get the best results, you'll need to wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours each day. Your dentist will tell you everything you need to know about your Invisalign treatment, but these extra tips can help you take even better care of your clear aligners:
1. Take your aligners out before drinking hot beverages.
Invisalign retainers are made from durable plastic. However, this plastic can bend when exposed to high temperatures. You can still drink your favorite hot beverages like coffee and tea, but make sure you take your clear aligners out beforehand. You may want to rinse your mouth after your beverage in order to minimize staining from coffee and tea.
2. Brush your teeth after eating.
You'll have to take your clear aligners out to eat, and you should put them back in as soon as you're done. However, you should also take the time to brush your teeth first. Food particles can get stuck between your teeth and on your teeth's chewing surfaces. If left in place, your clear aligners can trap these particles, making you more likely to develop cavities. Always brush your teeth after having a meal. Flossing can also help, especially if you get anything stuck between your teeth.
3. Keep your nails trimmed.
Your nails can help you remove your clear aligners, but nails that are too long can damage your aligner. Long nails are also more likely to break with the pressure required to slide your clear aligners off your teeth. Keep your nails trimmed for the best Invisalign experience. Nails that are too short can make removal difficult so aim for a moderate nail length.
4. Avoid drinking wine.
Alcoholic beverages are great in moderation, but you should probably skip wine for the duration of your Invisalign treatment. Wine is acidic and highly pigmented, which means it can stain your clear aligners. If you must drink wine, choose white wines and rinse your mouth immediately after finishing your beverage. It's better to stick to clear liquor for the extent of your clear aligner treatment. Vodka and gin mixed with soda water won't stain your clear aligners or your teeth.
These tips will help you have the best clear aligner treatment possible. When you take good care of your retainers, they will stay in excellent condition for the duration of your treatment.
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