Oral Hygiene with Invisalign The labor of braces and aligners is to straighten crooked or misaligned teeth, which can both be a concern for a patient if not properly taken care of. It is crucial to keep your teeth and aligners clean by brushing and flossing your teeth at least two times per day, and preferably after each meal, removing your Invisalign to do so. You can also rinse your Invisalign aligners with cool water and brush them with toothpaste as well, being careful to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. For more detailed information on how to take care of your teeth and Invisalign clear aligners, our experienced team here at would be more than happy to help take you through all of the steps, so your orthodontic treatment can result in the best possible outcome.Why Is Dental Hygiene Important?It is important to maintain good brushing and flossing habits throughout your Invisalign treatment process to prevent tooth decay, plaque buildup, and staining. Poor dental hygiene is often responsible for common infection-related diseases such as gum disease. This can be even more so when wearing Invisalign, as food particles can get trapped against the teeth if they are not brushed regularly. You do not want to be putting your aligner back into an unclean mouth. Practicing good oral hygiene, however, helps to dislodge food and prevent bacteria growth. In worst-case scenarios, oral problems could be contributing factors to other health concerns such as respiratory problems, risk of heart disease, cancer, and even premature birth. This is because harmful bacteria from the mouth are prone to enter your bloodstream through infected teeth and gums, and it may ultimately reach other parts of your body. Fortunately, brushing and flossing regularly, keeping both your teeth and aligners clean, will help prevent any complications during treatment. Maintaining strict dental hygiene habits while wearing Invisalign also keeps away plaque that may accumulate. Taking Care of Your InvisalignYou will want to be careful to thoroughly clean your teeth with a quality toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste, and dental floss. A fluoride mouthwash can also be beneficial. It is recommended to brush your teeth in the morning, after every meal, and just before going to bed. Be sure to keep an eye on your toothbrush, as they might wear out faster when you have Invisalign. You should be gentle while brushing and obtain a soft-bristled toothbrush that cannot cause any harm to your gums or your clear aligner. Nutrition Does Play a RoleOne benefit of Invisalign clear aligners over traditional metal braces, is that there are no food restrictions. Since you remove your aligner while you eat or drink, you are not kept from eating your favorite foods. As a good rule of thumb, however, it is important to avoid sugars and acids. Acidic foods like pineapples, tomatoes, and soft drinks can cause erosion of the enamel on your teeth and wear them down, which could potentially make it harder for your aligner to stay in place comfortably. Try to opt for less-acidic alternatives whenever possible, such as cucumbers, carrots, and bananas. Good nutrition makes it easier for your mouth to fight against cavities, gum disease, and infection. Specific types of food and fruits like milk, raisins, and cranberries contain minerals and vitamins which can help to keep your teeth strong and healthy. Taking care of your teeth and Invisalign clear aligners is an easy process, and a necessary step in the orthodontic restoration process, and it is well worth it in the end. For more information, or to set up an appointment with us, please call us here at OHIOSmiles at (740) 781-0540 today. |
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