Clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet and convenient way to straighten your teeth. At Shwarts Family Dentistry, we’re excited to help you achieve a beautifully aligned smile with Invisalign clear aligners, but maintaining excellent oral hygiene during treatment is essential for the best results. Here’s how to care for your teeth while using clear aligners.
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
One of the great benefits of clear aligners is that they’re removable, allowing you to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. It’s crucial to brush your teeth after every meal before putting your aligners back in. This helps prevent food particles and bacteria from getting trapped between your teeth and aligners, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Don’t forget to floss daily to remove any debris from between your teeth!
2. Clean Your Aligners Daily
Your aligners need regular cleaning just like your teeth. At Shwarts Family Dentistry, we recommend gently brushing your aligners with a soft-bristle toothbrush and rinsing them with lukewarm water daily. Avoid using toothpaste or harsh cleansers, as they can scratch the aligners and cause them to become discolored.
3. Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
Since clear aligners are made from transparent material, they can become stained if exposed to certain foods and drinks. To keep your aligners clear and invisible, try to avoid consuming beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine while wearing them. If you do indulge, be sure to brush your teeth before reinserting your aligners. Removing your aligners during meals and storing them in their case is also a good practice to avoid stains.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day not only benefits your overall health but also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Water is the only beverage you should consume while wearing your aligners. Other drinks, especially sugary or acidic ones, can lead to tooth decay and affect the integrity of your aligners.
5. Use a Retainer Case
Whenever you remove your aligners to eat or drink, make sure to place them in a retainer case. This helps protect them from damage and prevents you from accidentally losing them. Leaving your aligners out in the open can expose them to bacteria, which can then transfer to your mouth.
6. Visit Shwarts Family Dentistry Regularly
Routine check-ups at Shwarts Family Dentistry are vital to ensure your teeth are moving as planned and that your oral health remains in top condition throughout your treatment. During these visits, we can check for any potential issues and provide professional cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
7. Follow Your Treatment Plan
Finally, wearing your aligners as directed by your orthodontist is key to achieving the desired results. Typically, this means wearing them for 20-22 hours a day. Consistently following your treatment plan will help you reach your smile goals on schedule.
At Shwarts Family Dentistry, we’re here to support you every step of the way on your clear aligner journey. If you have any questions or need more tips on how to care for your teeth while using aligners, don’t hesitate to contact us. Together, we’ll keep your smile on the right track!
Contact Shwarts Family Dentistry:
972-437-6035
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
7522 Campbell Rd. Ste 120,
Dallas, TX 75248