If you want straighter teeth, Invisalign® offers an effective and comfortable way to accomplish this goal. Unlike traditional metal braces, you can remove these clear dental appliances to eat. You can also practice your dental care routine without any obstructions. However, they require proper maintenance, so here are some guidelines to keep them in good condition.

Do:

Store your retainers properly.

After removing your retainers, rinse them before packing them in their container. If you leave them outside of the tray, they are at risk of gathering airborne contaminants, including germs, bacteria, and pollen. If you do forget to put them away, rinse them well before storing or placing them in your mouth.

Use a denture cleaning solution or a specific Invisalign cleaner.

Letting the aligners soak in the appropriate cleaning solution for 15 to 20 minutes will protect their clear, attractive appearance. It also helps you maintain good dental health, eliminating any lingering bacteria buildup. You can use a product made for dentures or Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, which are designed specifically for your retainers. 

Don't:

Drink or eat while wearing them.

Drinking water while wearing your aligners is fine, but don't consume anything else unless you've taken them out of your mouth first. Any other type of beverage, like coffee or soda, will stain these dental appliances. Invisalign retainers also cannot withstand the pressure of eating food, which also gets stuck in the aligners. Therefore, be prepared to eat or drink by always keeping the retainer case with you. 

Use toothpaste to clean your retainers.

Toothpaste is great for your teeth but not for Invisalign retainers. That's because it contains corroding chemicals that can wear down the aligner materials. This is especially true if you use a teeth-whitening option. Along with deterioration, this product can discolor these clear, plastic dental appliances.

For straighter and healthier teeth, visit Arrow Dental Care. Based in Saint Peters, MO, Dr. Matt Howard and his skilled team offer top-quality dental services using the latest innovations in the industry. From same-day emergency dentistry services to routine checkups and oral health maintenance, their experienced staff is ready to help you. Popular offerings include Invisalign dental appliances, teeth whitening, implants, crowns, and dentures. For more about teeth straightening options, visit the website. To set up an appointment, call (636) 441-6999.