Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth into the desired position. It’s recommended to wear them for 20 to 22 hours each day, which means they’ll inevitably get dirty.
If you’re considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you’re probably wondering how much work it will be to keep them clean. Invisalign retainers are made of a clear, smooth plastic that won’t collect plaque as your teeth would. And while the trays are designed to be virtually invisible, they can still accumulate bacteria, plaque, and other debris.
Here’s what to know about cleaning your Invisalign retainers.
Is It Important to Clean Invisalign Retainers?
Yes, it’s important to clean your Invisalign retainers regularly to remove bacteria, plaque, and other debris. If you don’t clean your aligners, you may be at risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
In addition to that, cleaning your Invisalign can ensure that the aligners work effectively. If your aligners are covered in bacteria or other debris, they won’t fit as snugly against your teeth, which can lengthen the treatment time.
What Affects Your Invisalign Retainers’ Condition?
There are a few things that can affect your Invisalign retainers’ condition. First of all, if you don’t maintain and clean them properly, they will become stained and yellowed. Certain food and drink can cause discoloration, along with certain habits like cigarette smoking.
Second, if you don’t store the Invisalign retainers properly to maintain their cleanliness, they can become warped. And finally, if you don’t wear them as often as you should, they can become dry and cracked.
How Do You Clean Invisalign Retainers?
Invisalign retainers are a great way to keep your teeth straight. But, like anything else, they need to be properly cared for in order to stay in good condition. If you want to keep your Invisalign retainers in tip-top shape, it’s important to clean them regularly and properly, especially after meals.
Here’s how to do it:
- Remove and Brush the Interior. First, remove your Invisalign retainers from your mouth. Then, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently brush the inside of the retainers. Be sure to brush all the nooks and crannies to remove any buildup of plaque or bacteria.
- Sanitize with Cleaning Crystals. Once you’ve brushed the inside of the retainers, it’s time to sanitize them. You can do this by soaking the retainers in a cup of cleaning crystals for about 15 minutes. This should kill any remaining bacteria and keep the retainers clean.
- Avoid Putting The Trays in Hot Water. It’s important to avoid putting your Invisalign retainers in hot water, as this can cause them to warp. If you need to remove any stubborn buildup from the retainers, soak them in a cup of lukewarm water instead or brush and rinse them under cold water instead.
Conclusion
Invisalign retainers can keep your teeth looking their best after your orthodontic treatment. But for them to work properly, you need to take good care of them. By following the tips above and visiting a dental clinic, you can keep your retainers clean, bacteria-free, and looking their best.
In need of Invisalign in Manassas? Galleria Dental Arts provides quality dental care to patients, focusing on a comprehensive approach to oral health. Get in touch with us today!
