At Cavalancia Orthodontics, we’re proud to offer a wide variety of orthodontic services. From early treatment to retainers, our Johnstown, PA, and Indiana, PA offices are ready to provide end-to-end orthodontic care for the whole family - including invisible aligners. If you’ve done any research into braces, you’ve likely come across this increasingly popular method and read about the many benefits and conveniences they provide. Something you may not be as familiar with, however, is how to keep invisible aligners clean - so here are 6 easy tips for keeping your invisible aligners clean!
Remove Before Eating or Drinking
One of the key rules to follow during your invisible aligner treatment is to make sure you are always removing your aligner trays before eating or drinking anything other than water. Wearing your invisible aligners while eating or drinking may not only damage them, but will allow food particles and bacteria to discolor, scratch, or more serious damage your aligner trays.
Rinse Regularly
When you do take your aligners out to eat or drink (or at any other point throughout the day), make sure to rinse them with cool or lukewarm water to remove saliva, food or drink residue, or anything else that may have settled into your aligner trays. Avoid using hot water, as this can warp the shape of the trays.
Use the Right Toothbrush
Any time you would normally brush your teeth, take the time to brush your invisible aligner trays as well. Using a toothbrush is the best way to ensure your aligner trays are scrubbed clean, however, you should pay attention to the type of brush used. Use only a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub your aligners, since harder bristles could scuff the surface, causing them to become visible when on your teeth.
Only Use Appropriate Cleaners
Since scuffs or scrapes could lead to the aligner trays becoming visible when worn, it’s also very important to use the correct type of cleaner for your trays. Using a mild and clear liquid soap will work, but the best way to safely clean and sanitize your trays is by using a cleanser specifically designated for invisible aligner trays or retainers.
Store Aligner Trays in Their Case
To avoid damage such as scuffs, scrapes, bends, or warping of your invisible aligner trays, always make sure to put them back in their protective case any time they are not being worn. This will also make them much easier to find when you’re ready to put them back in!
Brush & Floss
Keeping your teeth clean might be an overlooked way to keep your invisible aligners clean since it’s more focused on your teeth than the actual trays, but brushing and flossing before wearing your aligners will help keep them clean from food particles and bacteria during wear. Not only is this just good dental practice in general, but it will help keep your aligners clean and clear.
Looking for Invisible Aligners Near You? Contact Cavalancia Orthodontics Today!
If you’ve been on the hunt for a provider of invisible aligners near you, look no further than the friendly professionals at Cavalancia Orthodontics. You’ll be sure to find a knowledgeable orthodontist ready to help you achieve your best smile at one of our two locations in Indiana or Johnstown, PA. If you have any questions about invisible aligners or any of our other available services, contact us today to learn more and get started on the road to a great new smile. We can’t wait to see you!