There are many ways today to straighten teeth besides just braces, but like any method of teeth straightening, Invisalign requires maintenance. Although keeping your mouth clean is easier with Invisalign, it is important to take care of your aligner trays alongside your teeth.
Orthodontist Office, Dr. McSurdy, or Pennsylvania’s “Smile Specialists” are dedicated to giving you quality care and teeth straightening treatment to give you the smile of your dreams. We can assess your needs to determine if Invisalign is a viable option for you. If you are considering treatment, it is important that you know about the process and what will be required of you. Here’s a look at how you will care for your Invisalign aligners.
Overview of Aligners and Treatment
Invisalign uses a series of plastic trays that are specially made for your teeth using imprints or 3D models of your teeth. You will switch aligners every week or two for a new one that will shift your teeth closer and closer towards perfection.
Treatment can take upwards of a year and a half or more depending on your needs. This means that you could go through dozens of aligners over the course of your treatment. Each one is important for your treatment, so you must treat them with care and make sure that you do not lose them.
Cleaning Your Aligners
Along with brushing your teeth twice a day, you should also clean your aligners every single day. Neglecting your aligner can cause buildup of bacteria that can not only ruin the tray, but can make you and your teeth sick.
To clean your aligners, you can use a kit from Invisalign, or simply brush them with your toothbrush and toothpaste. Cleaning kits come with a cleaning tub that your aligners go into with a disinfectant and cleaner that will kill any bacteria and keep your aligners in good shape.
If you’d prefer to brush them along with your teeth, make sure that you brush them with a non-abrasive toothpaste. Whitening toothpastes are abrasive and can wear out your aligner. Use a soft bristled toothbrush, and brush all surfaces of the aligner, even if it doesn’t look dirty.
Visit the Orthodontist Regularly
Only your orthodontist can fully assess your progress and determine whether you are taking proper care of your Invisalign trays and keeping your mouth healthy in the process. Invisalign treatment is time consuming and can be costly, so it is important that you do it right the first time so you do not have to repeat it.
Contact Us
If you are in need of Invisalign treatment, or need help with keeping your Invisalign trays clean, make sure you give us a call at 610-489-6032 or contact us here today. We are ready and waiting to make you smile!