The anticipation of getting your braces off is truly exciting, especially after dedicating months or even years to achieve your new smile. Regular visits to our Boca Raton office have been an essential part of this journey. However, imagine the disappointment of discovering straight teeth marred by decay.
Maintaining your smile during Invisalign treatment extends beyond the anticipation of straighter teeth. It necessitates consistent and thorough teeth cleaning to prevent the onset of tooth decay. This ensures that your smile emerges even more beautiful once your Invisalign treatment is complete.
Removing Your Trays
A notable distinction between Invisalign and traditional metal braces is the invisibility of Invisalign aligners. Equally important is the fact that Invisalign braces are removable. It’s crucial to take the trays out, especially when eating, to prevent food from getting stuck. Additionally, removing them during teeth cleaning allows unrestricted access to every nook and cranny in your mouth.
Normal Brushing Routine
The guidelines for brushing with Invisalign aligners remain consistent with those for traditional braces. Brush your teeth a minimum of twice daily using a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, ensuring all surfaces of your teeth are thoroughly cleaned. Ideally, brush after each meal; if not, swish water around your mouth to remove leftover food. Leaving carbohydrates, such as sugar and starch, on your teeth can lead to tooth decay.
Flossing and Mouthwash
Flossing is crucial to remove particles lodged between your teeth. In the case of Invisalign, the removable design simplifies this task compared to navigating traditional metal braces. Rinsing your mouth with a fluoride antibacterial mouthwash complements the cleaning process by reaching all spaces. Aim to floss and rinse one or two times daily.
Tray Maintenance
Cleaning your Invisalign trays is essential to prevent bacterial buildup and ensure your teeth remain free from excess food. The Invisalign cleaning system, involving a tray soak in cleaning crystals, achieves cleanliness in just 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can inquire with Dr. Sindledecker and Dr. Saltz for additional tray cleaning methods.
