Invisalign® is a practical cosmetic dentistry option that gradually straightens the teeth using a series of clear, custom aligner trays. Patients enjoy the flexibility of this solution, as the trays can be removed briefly for eating and oral care. To ensure your trays hold up and achieve optimal outcomes in transforming your smile, here are some do’s and don’ts for caring for them. 

Do:

Keep your trays in their case.

Aligner trays should be worn from 20 to 22 hours each day. When they’re not being worn, it’s essential that you store them in their case. Not only will this prevent bacteria from accumulating on them, but it will also help to keep them from getting lost or damaged.

Remove them for consuming anything but water.

Invisalign trays are made from durable thermoplastic. Yet, this material is only meant to hold up to water and approved cleaning products. Any time you’re eating a meal, snacking, or sipping a beverage other than water, take your aligners out, rinse them, and store them in their dedicated case. 

Don’t: 

Put your trays in without cleaning your teeth.

When you remove your aligners to have foods and drinks, always clean your teeth before putting them back in. This will prevent food particles from transferring to the trays, where they could become trapped and continue to rub against your teeth, potentially leading to cavities. 

Use harsh products to clean your trays.

You should clean your trays daily, but only with products approved by your dentist. Never use toothpaste, soaps, or other traditional cleaners. Instead, stick with denture cleaner or the cleaning crystals designed exclusively for Invisalign trays. 

If you’re considering Invisalign to transform your smile, turn to Oahu Dental Care. Serving Pearl City, HI, this full-service dentist’s office provides a broad range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic solutions to help patients achieve and maintain healthy, glowing smiles. See their full list of services online, or call (808) 456-5005 to schedule an appointment.