Invisalign is a great solution to fix your bite and alignment with no brackets or wires. Clear aligners are worn over your teeth to move them slowly, offering a discreet and comfortable treatment. Your aligners will act as a barrier over your teeth, but that doesn’t mean you can stop brushing and flossing. Your aligners can’t get cavities, but your risk of tooth decay can increase if you’re not careful. Here’s how to keep your smile cavity-free while benefiting from Invisalign.
Invisalign May Increase Your Risk of Cavities
Invisalign works differently than metal braces because no brackets or wires are needed. Instead, your orthodontist takes an impression of your mouth and uses advanced technology to map the movement of your teeth. This information is fabricated into a series of aligners that are worn over your teeth for at least 22 hours per day. They apply gentle pressure to reposition your teeth gradually.
Although you remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything except water, you’re still at risk of cavities. Food residue and plaque can get trapped between your enamel and aligners, slowly eroding your enamel. It won’t grow back once you finish your treatment. The last thing you want is decay blemishing your new smile.
You Can Lessen Your Risk of Decay
Thankfully, you can take several steps to lessen your risk of cavities, like brushing and flossing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth in the morning, at night, and after eating. Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove any accumulations your toothbrush couldn’t reach.
Besides keeping your mouth clean, limit your consumption of sugars and starches, which feed cavity-causing bacteria. Don’t forget to clean your aligners twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid. Soak them in a cleaning solution daily. Always rinse your aligners before putting them in your mouth.
In addition to visiting your orthodontist regularly for your check-in appointments, don’t forget about your cleanings and checkups. Visit your dentist every 6 months for preventative care. They’ll keep your teeth and gums healthy while on your journey to a straight smile.
About Dr. Marissa Mikolich
Dr. Mikolich achieved her dental degree from The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and continued her education in advanced orthodontic care. She is passionate about creating healthy, confident smiles using the best solutions in orthodontics, like Invisalign. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (330) 538-8476.