The Importance of Maintaining Great Oral Health During Invisalign Treatment

Achieving a stunning, straight smile with Invisalign is a goal for many, but it’s crucial to remember that successful orthodontic results depend on consistent excellent oral hygiene.

When you wear Invisalign clear aligners, this importance amplifies. The protective embrace of Invisalign aligners can inadvertently hinder saliva’s natural cleansing action. Neglecting oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment can lead to plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum inflammation. These effects prolong your treatment and pose risks to your overall oral health.

In this article, we’ll explore 4 essential oral hygiene habits that will help you keep your mouth fresh and your Invisalign journey on track.

1. Brushing With Care: Proper Techniques for Clean Teeth and Aligners

The foundation of excellent oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment is proper brushing. It’s important to brush your teeth at least twice a day (but ideally after every meal) to ensure that no lingering food particles or bacteria undermine your orthodontic progress. 

For effective brushing, opt for a soft-bristle toothbrush and nonabrasive fluoride toothpaste. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth for two minutes, twice daily. Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush every three to four months (or sooner if you notice frayed bristles). 

Whether you prefer a manual or electric toothbrush, you can achieve a fresh, healthy smile by consistently following the recommendations above.

2. Flossing: Just as Important as Brushing

Regular flossing is a vital companion to brushing that prevents food particles and plaque from building up between the teeth. Surprisingly, research has shown that only around 30% of adults 30 and older follow the ADA’s recommendation to floss daily. So if you aren’t currently prioritizing this daily habit, start incorporating it into your routine today.

The great thing about Invisalign clear aligners is that you can easily remove them to floss instead of having to thread the floss under and around wires and brackets. Additionally, consider alternative flossing tools, such as water flossers or floss picks, to simplify your oral care routine and keep your smile bacteria and cavity-free.

3. Incorporating Mouthwash for Total Oral Hygiene

To bolster your oral hygiene regimen during Invisalign treatment, consider using an alcohol-free mouthwash to help reduce harmful bacteria. This type of rinse is a helpful addition to normal brushing and flossing.

Incorporating mouthwash into your Invisalign routine is simple. After removing your aligners, rinse with the mouthwash (preferably a clear one) to help reduce harmful bacteria, prevent gingivitis, and safeguard your smile and aligners from potential damage. This small addition can make a big difference in maintaining a healthy, bacteria-free smile while you work toward a straighter one.

4. Invisalign Cleaning Essentials: Ensuring Great Hygiene 

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is vital for maintaining your oral health during treatment. Here are some tips to ensure your Invisalign trays are clean and ready for use:

• Use gentle soap. Clean your aligners with a clear, unscented soap. This will effectively wash away bacteria without leaving residue. Alternatively, you can opt for specialized Invisalign cleaning products.
• Rinse regularly. Every time you take out your aligners, give them a quick rinse under warm water. This prevents bacteria from forming a dry film.
• Brush after meals. Always brush your teeth after eating to help prevent cavities and minimize oral bacteria buildup. If brushing isn’t feasible, try to rinse with mouthwash.
• Soak periodically. Soak your aligners every few days in Invisalign cleaning solution to eliminate bacterial buildup and maintain their clarity.

Remember to avoid foods and drinks that can stain or damage your aligners. Common culprits include coffee, tea, dark-colored berries, and soft drinks.

Secure your smile with Dixon, Boles and Associates.

By incorporating these four habits into your oral hygiene routine, you’ll maintain a fresh mouth and experience a successful orthodontic journey. Whether you’re wearing traditional braces or Invisalign aligners, remember that Dixon, Boles and Associates is your dental home for expert orthodontic care in Wilson, North Carolina. 

We understand the importance of maintaining optimal oral health as you work toward achieving your perfect smile. If you’re seeking comprehensive dental care and the expertise of a cosmetic dentist in Wilson, it’s time to take action. 
Request a consultation with us today to get started with Invisalign.