The Top Invisalign Clear Aligner Tips

Are you ready to start your journey to a straight smile with Invisalign? If clear aligners are in your future, take a look at the top tips to make your orthodontic experience better.

Set an Alarm

Do you enjoy the idea of taking your aligner trays out for meals, some types of sports, or other occasions? Even though the ability to remove aligners is one of the top benefits of this orthodontic option, you still need to wear the trays for most of the day (and the night too).

If you forget to put your aligners back in after meals or other activities, you won't get the best results possible. To combat periodic forgetfulness, and make sure you get the most out of your aligners, set an alarm with your smart phone every time you remove the trays.

Clean the Trays

While clear aligners aren't subject to the same wear and tear of traditional braces, you do need to maintain them.

Unlike the wire and bracket version, you won't clean your aligners during regular brushing sessions. This means you need to take special care of the trays and remember to refresh them regularly. Instead of making special times to clean your aligners, care for them when you would normally brush your teeth—in the morning, after meals, and at night.

After removing the trays to brush and floss your teeth, rinse the aligners with fresh water. Your dentist may also recommend a product for cleaning/soaking the trays, or they will show you how to brush them (without paste). If you brush the trays, rinse them again before you reinsert the aligners.

Use a Case

Avoid accidents and bacterial buildup with a fresh, clean case. Are you tempted to put your aligners on the side of the dinner plate or on your desk? If so, think again. It's easy to accidentally throw away or lose aligners if they're not stored properly.

Not only can trays left out in the open find their way into the trash or end up on the ground, but they can also come in contact with bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Reduce this risk and use a case to store your aligners. Remember to regularly clean the interior of the case. This decreases the likelihood of interior buildup.

Start your Invisalign treatment off the right way with a fresh, healthy mouth. Clean the aligners daily, use a case, and don't forget to put the trays back into your mouth after meals and other activities. If you have care questions or concerns, talk to your orthodontist about the best way to maintain your clear aligners.


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