It’s not always easy learning how to live with a new fixture in your mouth. You’ve become accustomed to how your mouth works on a normal day-to-day basis, so don’t expect to have two pieces of plastic put in and not experience some difficulty adjusting. Yes, Invisalign in Westminster is a much more flexible option than traditional braces, but because you can easily remove them, ensuring you wear and take proper care of them comes with much more responsibility. To guarantee a successful treatment, here are some ways you can maintain your braces.
An Alternative to Traditional Braces: Invisalign
If you have crooked teeth or an issue with your bite, and you’re an adult or mature teenager who wants a more discreet and subtle treatment option, Invisalign is a great solution for you. These clear, plastic aligners gently shift your teeth toward their desired location, making it a much more flexible and minimally painful experience. After wearing a set for two weeks, you simply swap them for a new set, bringing you one step closer to a straighter, more beautiful smile.
Proper Care and Maintenance
Not only will you be strongly advised to wear your aligners 20-22 hours each day, but in order to ensure you have a successful treatment, you’ll need to know how to take care of your Invisalign, so they stay in tip-top shape. Here’s how you can do this:
Cleaning Your Aligners
Whether you choose to use the Invisalign Cleaning System or lukewarm water, a toothbrush and some toothpaste, make sure you thoroughly clean your aligners. This will prevent bacteria buildup as well as remove any dried saliva from your trays. Never use hot water to clean your aligners, as it will warp the plastic.
Prevent Stains from Forming
It’s important to remove your aligners before eating and/or drinking. Your trays are not meant to withstand the pressure used to eat and can damage them. It’s also best to avoid colorful foods and drinks because of their ability to stain your teeth, which, in turn, could stain your trays if you do not thoroughly clean your teeth before reinserting your trays.
Sanitize Them
Should you ever drop your Invisalign aligners, make sure to sanitize them before putting them back in your mouth. You can use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals to give them a thorough cleaning, whether you drop them or are soaking them at night. Never leave your trays out in the open, as this can cause them to dry up and allow bacteria to build.
Replace Your Aligner ASAP
If you’ve broken your aligner tray, make sure to call your dentist in Westminster as soon as possible. Opting to avoid replacement can delay your treatment. Your dentist will order a replacement and provide you with options on how to continue treatment until your new tray arrives.
Keep these maintenance tips in mind when wearing your Invisalign braces. If you do, you can ensure a successful treatment that will result in a beautiful new smile.
About the Practice
If you’re looking to maintain optimal oral health, the team at Sage Dental Care – Westminster can provide you with the support you need. Situated in a high-tech environment, we offer a variety of general and specialty services, including cosmetic, preventative, emergency, and restorative dentistry, as well as dental implants. Looking to have your teeth straightened? Let our dental professionals fit you with Invisalign braces! To learn more about how Invisalign works, contact us at (303) 460-9000.