Invisalign® braces are a great way to straighten misaligned teeth without having to deal with the headaches that come with caring for traditional metal braces. However, they still require some care when it comes to keeping them clean and odor-free. If you have crooked or misaligned teeth and are considering Invisalign, turn to Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics in Fairfield, OH, to determine if you’re a good candidate. In the meantime, you can learn how to care for the trays once you get them.

The Do’s & Don’ts of Cleaning Your Invisalign Braces

1. Don’t Use Toothpaste

Toothpaste is safe enough for use on your teeth, so it’s only logical to assume you can use it on your Invisalign trays, too. However, most toothpastes contain abrasive particles to remove surface stains on enamel. When used on your trays, abrasive toothpaste can leave behind microscopic traps, where bacteria can gather and multiply. It can also dull your aligners, making them more noticeable when you wear them. 

2. Rinse Every Time You Remove Them

If you do not rinse your trays every time you remove them, they can develop a foul smell over time because plaque and dry saliva provide the perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Running the trays under water every time you take them out is all you need to do to prevent this problem and protect your teeth from harmful bacteria.

3. Don’t Use Colored Mouthwash

You should soak your Invisalign trays when you eat, and there are several formulas you can choose from in order to do so. If the Invisalign cleaning system is out of your budget, you can opt for a product like Retainer Brite, which will clean the trays without discoloring them. If you want to soak the trays in mouthwash once in a while to make them extra fresh, make sure you use a whitening mouthwash that is clear. Green and blue rinses will discolor the trays.

If you want to straighten your smile without the need for traditional braces, rely on Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics in Fairfield to show you all of your options. Visit their website to learn more about the benefits of getting Invisalign braces, and call (513) 823-3143 to schedule a consultation today.