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Invisalign aligners are an excellent alternative to metal or ceramic braces. They contain no wires or brackets and are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for straightening teeth. Invisalign aligners can be removed, making proper oral hygiene easier. Here are a few tips.

Brushing and Flossing

Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day after removing the aligners. A soft-bristled toothbrush is usually best for your teeth while brushing. After each use, be sure to rinse the aligner with water and allow it to air dry. When flossing your teeth, wrap them around your finger and slide them along the sides of the teeth to remove food debris. To clean between the teeth, use the floss threader. Remember to remove the aligners before cleaning them.

Avoiding Stain-causing Foods and Beverages

If you love drinking red wine, coffee, or tea, you need to rethink your habit. These foods and drinks can stain your clear aligners. If you must drink these beverages, consider removing the aligners and drinking them through a straw to minimize their contact with your teeth. After the consumption of foods that cause stains, make sure to brush and rinse thoroughly before inserting your aligners. This will remove leftover debris and food particles that can cause bacteria buildup, which could lead to cavities and even gum disease.

Brushing your Aligners

It is important to thoroughly clean your aligners and the attachments on your aligners, as food and plaque can accumulate around them. The attachments are made from either a plastic or metal material that can be prone to discoloration when exposed to certain foods and drinks such as coffee, wine, and juice. Ideally, brush your teeth before you insert your aligners in your mouth.

Storing your Invisalign Aligners

Keep your aligners in case when you are not wearing them to keep them from getting dirty or dusty. Be sure to put them back in their case while you eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Keep them in their case when you’re not wearing them to prevent germs from spreading. Never leave your aligners out in the open, where they can collect bacteria or be at risk of being knocked on the floor or ground.

Always keep your aligners stored in a clean location when not in use. Bacteria can build up on your aligners if stored in tough-to-reach places, such as your car’s glove compartment or your bedside table drawer. When in doubt, just keep them in your case! Yes, it may sound inconvenient to have your aligners with you at all times but keeping them in a case keeps them clean and sterile, so you don’t have to worry about them getting dirty. 

To learn more, schedule an appointment to meet with the best dentist Albuquerque, NM 87109, today!