Brushing with Invisalign® doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it’s super easy to remove your aligners and properly clean your teeth–a huge shift from traditional metal braces. Invisalign offers a huge variety of benefits to those who value achieving a beautiful–and straight–smile, through a method that’s almost invisible to the eye!
While Invisalign is highly effective, the aligners can trap food particles and bacteria, creating a breeding ground for plaque and tartar if not properly cleaned. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and even bad breath. This guide will walk you through the process of brushing your teeth effectively while wearing Invisalign, ensuring a healthy smile throughout your treatment.
How should I brush & floss my teeth with Invisalign?
Gone are the days of trying to maneuver through metal wires and brackets, with Invisalign, cleaning your teeth is just as easy as not having braces! Due to the versatility of Invisalign’s removable aligners, brushing and flossing is as simple as taking them out and brushing normally with an electric or ordinary toothbrush. We recommend brushing before and after using the aligners, to ensure the least amount of bacteria is living in your teeth, gums and Invisalign trays.
How do I clean the aligners?
After removing them from your mouth, gently brush and rinse your aligners in lukewarm water. Don’t use mouthwash alone, it’s simply not enough to remove hidden plaque and bacteria. Make sure no food residue is left in your aligners before you put them back in your mouth because darker foods, like blueberries for instance, can cause staining. Though some people like to let the aligners soak for 15 minutes, make sure you aren’t soaking them in anything corrosive to warp the trays.
Don’t forget to utilize the Invisalign Cleaning System, where you can keep your aligners odor-free and remove plaque from hard-to-reach places. How long does it take? Only 15 minutes to thoroughly clean your aligners.
Additionally, you can use an OAP Cleaner that removes germs, plaque and debris. Simply place the aligners over a sink and brush gently with the OAP cleaning serum. After you’ve brushed your trays thoroughly, rinse off with water. It’s that simple. It’s imperative that you keep your aligners, your teeth and gums, clean during Invisalign treatment to avoid bad breath and pesky bacteria.
How often should I wear my aligners?
According to Invisalign, aligners are most effective when they are worn 20 to 22 hours per day and only removed for eating and cleaning. When Invisalign trays are removed for regular brushing and flossing, remember to put them back in as soon as possible. The more you wear your Invisalign trays the better your results will be.
What should I avoid when cleaning my aligners?
Consider using the Invisalign Cleaning Kit to clean your aligners. If you don’t own one, simply rinse in lukewarm water or utilize the OAP cleaner. Never bleach or boil the trays to sterilize because they can cause irreparable damage of the plastic.
Can I use electric toothbrush with Invisalign?
Yes, you can use an electric toothbrush with Invisalign! In fact, it can be a great option for many people. Here’s why:
More Effective Cleaning: Electric toothbrushes are often more effective at removing plaque and bacteria than manual toothbrushes, especially around the gum line and in between teeth. This is particularly helpful when wearing Invisalign, as the aligners can make it slightly harder to reach all areas with a manual brush.
Gentle Vibration: Many electric toothbrushes offer a variety of cleaning modes and intensities. You can choose a gentle setting that is safe for your gums and teeth, especially if you have sensitive teeth or are prone to gum recession.
Timer Feature: Many electric toothbrushes come with a timer that ensures you brush for the recommended two minutes. This is helpful for cleaning your teeth thoroughly.
Can You Boil Invisalign?
No, you should not boil Invisalign aligners. Boiling water can warp and damage the plastic, altering their shape and making them unusable. Instead, it’s recommended to clean your aligners with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush or by using a gentle soap. Always avoid using hot water or placing them in a dishwasher, as these methods can also distort the trays.
Conclusion
Brushing your teeth with Invisalign requires a slight adjustment to your routine, but it’s essential for maintaining a healthy smile throughout your treatment. By following these simple steps and incorporating additional hygiene practices, you can keep your teeth and aligners clean and healthy, paving the way for a confident and beautiful smile.
For more information and personalized advice, consult your orthodontist. They can guide you on the best practices for maintaining oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign.
I’ve been around orthodontics for as long as I can remember with my father opening Zaytoun Orthodontics in 1959. That upbringing of being around my father and watching him change lives through perfecting smiles helped guide me in figuring out what I wanted to do when I grew up, which was to be in the healthcare field. Orthodontics for over 30 years. Joining my father and sister was a thrill for me and something that sets us apart from other orthodontists.
