How to Maintain Your Invisalign® Aligners for Long-Lasting Results
Your Invisalign clear aligners are not just a dental treatment but an investment in a beautiful, confident smile. Proper maintenance is essential to their effectiveness and comfort. The following tips will keep your aligners looking and feeling great.
- Clean your aligners daily.
Cleaning your aligners every morning and evening with unscented liquid soap and a soft-bristled brush removes saliva, plaque, and bacteria.
2. Rinse your Invisalign every time you remove them.
When you remove your aligners, always rinse them with warm (not hot) water to wash away debris and bacteria that could harden on the surface.
3. Whenever possible, brush and floss before putting your Invisalign in place.
If you are eating out and this isn’t practical, at least rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to dislodge food debris so it isn’t trapped beneath your aligners, where it can contribute to cavities and gum disease.
4. Always store your aligners in their case.
When you aren’t wearing your Invisalign aligners, store them in their protective case so they aren’t damaged or lost. The case also protects them from dirt and germs.
5. Soak your aligners each day.
Soaking your Invisalign clear aligners in a denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals helps prevent stains and odors, keeping them sparkling, clean, and fresh. Soaking them daily will also prolong their life and improve their feel in your mouth.
6. Keep our instructions in mind.
We typically recommend wearing Invisalign® 20-22 hours a day, switching to a new set every two weeks, although this may vary. For successful results, it’s crucial to stick to the guidelines we’ve given you.
7. Do not eat or drink with Invisalign in place.
With the exception of water, don’t eat or drink with your aligners in place. Foods and drinks can stain and warp the aligners, which can affect their fit and your treatment progress.
8. Do not use toothpaste on your aligners.
Although cleaning your Invisalign with toothpaste is tempting, avoid doing this. Toothpaste is too abrasive and can scratch them, giving them a cloudy appearance. Unscented, clear soap or Invisalign’s cleaning solution is best.
9. Don’t leave your Invisalign® in a hot car.
In the summer months, your car’s inside temperature can soar quickly. If you leave your clear aligners in the car, even in their case, they can quickly warp out of shape.
10. Don’t smoke with your Invisalign in place.
Smoking quickly discolors them, turning them from clear to a noticeable yellowish shade that cannot be cleaned off.
- Never use hot water on your aligners.
Always clean and rinse your aligners with warm or cool water. Hot water can warp your aligners, making them uncomfortable and useless for properly aligning your teeth.
And a few tips for adjusting to Invisalign® clear aligners:
When first starting out with Invisalign, some people face an adjustment period. To make the transition easier, keep these tips in mind:
- Switch to each new aligner at night so you can adjust to the fit while you’re sleeping.
- Wear your aligners for the full 20-22 hours each day. If you avoid wearing them, adjusting will take longer.
- If your aligners irritate your gums at first, eat soft, cool foods for the first few days when you switch to new aligners.
At Tonka Smiles, we are committed to making your Invisalign journey successful. If you have any questions or concerns about your aligners, please get in touch with us at Tonka Smiles Phone Number 952-938-8533; we are always here to help.