For many people, choosing between Invisalign® braces and traditional options is easy. Clear aligners are less noticeable, easy to put in and out, and as effective as older-style metal devices. While they do require some basic care, you can keep them in top condition by following the guidelines below.

Do:

Remove your braces when eating.

Invisalign braces aren’t made for use while consuming anything other than water. Therefore, you must take them out before sitting down for a meal or drinking. This is especially true if you’re sipping coffee or red wine, which causes staining. Without this practice, the clear aligners would wear out more quickly or become discolored. They could also trap pieces of food, contributing to gum disease and oral infections.

Clean your braces daily.

Cleaning your Invisalign braces will prevent saliva and bacteria buildup, protecting your teeth from further dental problems like bad breath or cavities. For the best results, you should complete this task at least twice daily, in the morning and at night. 

Leave your trays to soak in Invisalign cleaning crystals or a solution of water and denture cleaner for about three minutes. After that, use a spare soft-bristled toothbrush to dislodge any stubborn dirt or food particles. Finally, rinse the trays off before putting them back in.

Don’t:

Use toothpaste to clean your braces.

Toothpaste can be abrasive on Invisalign braces, potentially causing discoloration or cloudy patches to form on the surface. These blemishes will make the aligners more noticeable and detract from their appearance. To keep the dental appliances in good condition, stick to nonabrasive denture cleaning solutions or Invisalign crystals instead.

Leave your braces exposed to the open air.

Similar to dentures, Invisalign braces can accumulate bacteria and lose their shape when left to dry out in the air. Therefore, carry the container they came in with you at all times. This measure ensures you can store them whenever you must take them out for any reason. Before you put the devices back in your mouth, clean them by soaking and rinsing them.

If you’re interested in seeing how Invisalign braces could work for you, visit Lamont Jacobs Orthodontics in Fairfield, OH. These experienced orthodontists offer Invisalign and traditional braces for patients of all ages. Using state-of-the-art technology, they’ll get an accurate impression of your smile to ensure you find the dental appliance that best meets your needs. Call (513) 829-7045 to book an appointment, and visit them online to learn more about their services.