If you’re longing for a straighter smile but want a more discreet solution than traditional braces, Invisalign could be the right fit for you. Rather than bulky metal brackets, this alternative treatment uses clear, plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth to gradually reposition them.
You’ll wear your aligners for 22 hours every day, which gives bacteria in your mouth plenty of time to thrive while pressed tightly against your teeth and gums. This puts you at an increased risk of cavities and gingivitis, which can thankfully be prevented by brushing and flossing more thoroughly at home. With that in mind, here are three tips to help you preserve your grin throughout your treatment!
Tip #1: Rinse After Meals
You don’t want to eat with your Invisalign inserted because chewing with the plastic material can stain or damage it. Instead, take your trays out of your mouth for meals. Then, to ensure that you don’t place them back into an unclean mouth, rinse with water or a gentle mouthwash solution when you’re finished. This clears away any leftover food and bacteria, so they don’t have the chance to build residue on your teeth after the fact.
It’s also a good idea to hold your aligners under gently running water before replacing them, but be sure it’s room temperature water. Heat can warp them so they no longer fit correctly, adding time to your treatment timeline. For a full picture of what to expect during treatment, see our guide on how long Invisalign takes for most patients.
Tip #2: Floss More Frequently
Wearing the plastic covers over your teeth all day and night makes you more prone to cavities and gum concerns, and increasing your flossing routine is another easy but effective preventive step. Typically, your dentist recommends that you floss twice daily after brushing, but with Invisalign, you should also floss after every meal. This consistently removes any unwanted particles that might accumulate into plaque or tartar, which leads to dental issues that worsen over time. You may also want to read about possible complications with Invisalign so you know what signs to watch for during treatment.
Tip #3: Watch What You Eat
Sugary foods attract bacteria that work alongside acidic ingredients to wear down your enamel and contribute to decay. Your trays can trap these materials against your teeth for long periods, increasing the likelihood of developing an issue. Instead of filling up on options that can hurt your dental and overall health, choose more wholesome and filling foods. For example, dairy products are full of calcium for strong enamel, and citrus fruits provide vitamin C for healthy gums. If you are still deciding between clear aligners and metal braces, our comparison of Invisalign vs traditional braces can help guide your decision.
Now that you know more about preserving your oral health during treatment, you’ll have a perfectly straight, healthy grin to show off once your Invisalign journey is complete!
About the Practice
At Boston Smile Center, you benefit from two skilled dentists with 35+ years of combined experience. Dr. Sasson and Dr. Shainhouse work together to offer a wide range of cosmetic dentistry services, including Invisalign, conveniently under one roof to streamline your oral health care. They combine a patient-first philosophy with state-of-the-art technology to enhance your comfort and provide fully individualized solutions to meet your unique needs. If you’d like a straighter smile, contact us to request a consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Care During Invisalign
Can I drink water while wearing my Invisalign aligners?
Yes, plain water is the one beverage you can drink without removing your aligners. All other drinks, including coffee, tea, juice, and soda, should be consumed with your aligners removed. Colored or sugary liquids can stain the trays and trap sugars against your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and discoloration during treatment.
How should I clean my Invisalign aligners?
Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water each time you remove them, then gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of clear, unscented soap. Avoid using toothpaste on the trays, as it is abrasive and can create micro-scratches that make the aligners look cloudy. Invisalign also offers official cleaning crystals that are safe and effective for daily use.
What happens if I don’t wear my aligners for the full 22 hours each day?
Consistent wear is critical to keeping your treatment on schedule. Each set of aligners is designed to apply gentle, continuous pressure to move teeth gradually. If you wear your aligners for fewer hours than recommended, teeth may not move as planned, which can extend the length of your treatment or require adjustments. Your dentist will track your progress at check-up visits throughout the process.
Can I chew gum while wearing Invisalign?
No. Chewing gum with your aligners in place can cause the gum to stick to the trays and potentially distort their shape. If you enjoy gum, remove your aligners first, chew briefly, then brush and rinse before putting them back in. Keeping the aligners clean and free of debris helps protect both the appliances and your teeth throughout treatment.
How do I prevent bad breath while wearing Invisalign?
Good oral hygiene is the most effective way to prevent bad breath during Invisalign treatment. Brush and floss thoroughly after every meal before reinserting your aligners, rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash, and clean your aligners each time you remove them. Staying well-hydrated also helps, since dry mouth can contribute to odor-causing bacterial growth.