Invisalign® retainers can straighten your teeth without the awkward appearance of standard braces. Since they’re clear and molded to fit your teeth, they’re hardly noticeable when you smile. However, for optimal results, they’ll need the proper maintenance. Here’s how to ensure they last. 

Do: 

Clean them routinely. 

Whenever you take the retainers out, rinse them with water, antibacterial soap, and a soft toothbrush. When you’re not wearing them, keep them in a case.

Also, soak them in a cleaning solution overnight while you sleep. These actions will prevent bacteria, plaque, and food particles from accumulating on them.  

Continue regular oral hygiene. 

Your teeth also need to be free of plaque and food particles. Otherwise, they could impact the performance or alignment of the retainers. Brush and floss before and after wearing your retainers. 

Stock up as needed. 

The typical Invisalign retainer is meant to last about two weeks. Let your dentist know when you only have one or two left so that you can order more and have them available when you need them. Make sure you get extras for long trips as well. 

Don’t: 

Eat or drink with them. 

Invisalign isn’t made for accommodating foods or liquids. At best, they’ll become discolored, especially if you consume foods known to stain, such as colored sodas, coffee, tea, wine, curry, and tomato-based sauces.

In some cases, the retainer may become bent or otherwise damaged, and food particles could get lodged in the aligners. If they get stained anyway, scrub them off gently with baking soda, and soak them in a mixture of warm water and vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. 

Use them with harsh or scented oral products. 

Scented antibacterial soaps and toothpaste may also cause discoloration of your retainers. They could also leave some residue, which would make the retainers feel, smell, and taste uncomfortable. 

Whiten your teeth without checking. 

The retainer is unlikely to be harmed if you use it as a tray for teeth whitening products. However, some whiteners cause sensitivity in teeth, making it uncomfortable to wear the retainer. Ask your dentist for approval before trying a whitener. 

If you need new Invisalign retainers, contact Bolivar Family Dental. Since 2006, they’ve provided general and cosmetic dentistry to patients throughout Polk County, MO, and the surrounding counties. They can help you get the bright and healthy smile you want by ensuring your retainers stay in excellent shape. They also offer many other important procedures, including surgeries and crown fittings. Call (417) 777-8654 or message them online to schedule an appointment.