Our Straight Smile dentists often use Invisalign to help our patients achieve a straighter smile. Here is how to care for the health of your teeth and gums while undergoing orthodontic treatment with Invisalign.

Invisalign is a Removable Orthodontic Treatment Option

Caring for the health of your teeth and gums as you straighten your smile is easy with Invisalign's removable clear aligners!

By simply removing your aligners, you can thoroughly clean your teeth without any special brushes or tools that are often required with traditional orthodontic treatment.

Pop your aligners out, store them safely in the container provided, and brush and floss your teeth as normal. Then, once you have finished cleaning your teeth, take a minute to clean your aligners then pop them back in place. That's all there is to it.

Keep in mind that throughout your Invisalign treatment, whenever you remove your aligners you should take the time to brush and floss thoroughly before placing the aligners back on your teeth. This helps to prevent any food particles and bacteria from getting trapped between your aligners and your teeth which could lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or bad breath.

To achieve the best results possible from your Invisalign treatment be sure to wear your aligners for a minimum of 20-22 hours every day. Taking your aligners out too often or for too long could hamper your treatment progress.

Keeping Your Aligners Clean & Clear

While you are undergoing treatment with Invisalign clear aligners you will want to keep the aligners as clean and clear as possible. To clean your aligners, simply use a mild soft soap (not toothpaste) and a soft bristled toothbrush to brush away any plaque or bacteria that may have built up on them.

Soaking your aligners regularly (but briefly) in Invisalign cleaning crystals, denture cleaner, Retainer Brite, or plain white vinegar can help to remove any stubborn buildup and to keep your aligners sanitized.

If for some reason you need to remove your aligners but don't have your cleaning tools handy, be sure rinse them under warm (not hot) running water before returning them to your mouth.