If you’re looking for the most discreet way to fix your crooked teeth, you’ll want to learn more about Invisalign in Las Vegas. Known to be virtually invisible, these clear aligners are a much more appealing option than the metal and wires of traditional braces. However, since these aligners are removable, they require special care.
Your chances of getting the best possible results will largely depend on you keep your trays in pristine condition. As soon as you start your orthodontic treatment, your dental care provider will give you a list of instructions to help you breeze through the entire process until you achieve your best smile yet.
What Are the Dos and Don’ts of Invisalign Care?
DO Clean Your Aligners Every Day
Did you know that as you wear your clear aligners, plaque and bacteria can easily buildup on them? For this reason, it’s extremely important to clean your aligners on a daily basis. Make it a point to brush them at least twice a day with the use of a soft-bristled toothbrush before rinsing them with lukewarm water.
Although you may choose to use Invisalign cleaning crystals, keep in mind that you’ll only get to wear each set of aligners for about a week or two before they need to be replaced with the next set. In other words, these special cleaning products can be really nice to have, but they’re really not a necessity.
DO Brush Your Teeth After Meals
It’s important to note that without proper cleaning, your aligners will start to yellow and develop an unpleasant odor. Since your clear aligners snugly fit your teeth, they can easily trap food particles and liquids.
Unless you brush your teeth after you eat or drink, and before you put your aligners back in, you’ll likely develop tooth decay. If brushing isn’t possible, be sure to at least rinse your mouth with lukewarm water before putting the aligners back in your mouth.
DO Store Your Aligners In An Invisalign Case
You’ll only need to wear your aligners for about 20 to 22 hours each day because you’ll have to take them out when you’re eating, drinking, brushing, or flossing. Since these aligners are clear, most patients tend to forget where they’ve placed them. Typically, if their aligners don’t end up in the trash bin, they’re damaged by pets.
Aside from being required to purchase replacement aligners, losing them can also put your orthodontic treatment off track. To avoid losing your clear aligners or getting them damaged, make sure to store them in an Invisalign case each time you remove them.
DON’T Expose Your Trays to Open Air
Aside from increasing your chances of losing your clear aligners, leaving them out in the open air whenever you’re not wearing them can increase bacteria buildup. It’s best to keep your Invisalign case with you at all times.
However, if you do leave your trays out for a while, make sure to rinse them, soak them, and rinse them again before putting them back in your mouth.
DON’T Forget to Pack the Next Set of Aligners When You Travel
The last thing you want is to experience delays in your treatment. If you’re planning to go out of town for two weeks or longer, be sure to inform your orthodontist so that they can hand you your next set of aligners before you leave. You’ll also want to take your old aligners with you as a spare in case you end up losing your current trays while you’re traveling.
Additionally, make sure that you carry your clear aligners in your carry-on luggage or purse when you’re flying, just in case you lose your baggage or it gets delayed.
DON’T Expose Your Trays to Heat
Did you know your trays can easily warp if you rinse them with hot water, consume hot drinks while wearing them, or leave them in a hot car? Exposing them to heat can significantly impact the results of your treatment.
DON’T Wear Them While Eating and Drinking
With the exception of plain water, you’re supposed to take your clear aligners out when you’re eating or drinking. These orthodontic appliances are made of materials that couldn’t withstand the added pressure of chewing your food.
Furthermore, as previously mentioned, food debris and liquid tend to get trapped between the trays and your teeth. To steer clear of decay, cavities, and stains, it’s best to take your aligners out when you’re enjoying your meals.
DON’T Use Harsh Cleansers on Your Trays
Abrasive toothpaste can leave noticeable scratches on your trays. Furthermore, colored or scented soaps can cause them to discolor. To keep your aligners invisible, avoid using these cleansers.
Are You Considering Invisalign in Las Vegas?
The experienced dental care specialists at Dee for Dentist use a high-tech digital scanner and advanced virtual modeling software to design an Invisalign plan that’s perfect for you. If you want to achieve a straighter smile in as little as six months, contact our office today to book your appointment!
