Invisalign is a remarkable orthodontic method that uses clear aligners that are virtually invisible when worn to gradually straighten teeth into healthier alignments. These devices are customized to snugly and precisely fit the patient’s teeth, but this does not mean they can protect the smile from cavities. Here’s a brief guide to how you can develop cavities during Invisalign treatment as well as how excellent oral hygiene will help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign can be a fantastic way to address mild or moderate dental misalignments, and the process begins with a dentist using a specialized device to create a detailed three-dimensional map of the patient’s mouth. This information is then used to construct a sequence of customized clear aligners. The patient must wear each set of aligners for at least twenty hours a day and switch to the next set in their sequence every two weeks or so. The treatment usually takes between six and eighteen months to straighten a smile.
How Can Cavities Happen During Invisalign Treatment?
It’s crucial for Invisalign patients to remember to remove their aligners before eating or drinking anything except liquid water and to thoroughly clean their teeth before wearing their appliances again. Neglecting to do this will allow plaque and food debris to accumulate between the aligners and the teeth, and this bacteria-breeding mass will be protected from the mouth’s natural cleaning process. This makes it easy for harmful germs to cause cavities or unsightly dental stains.
How Can I Prevent Cavities During Invisalign Treatment?
The best way to keep your teeth and gums in great shape during Invisalign treatment is to strictly adhere to your dentist’s treatment instructions so your teeth stay clean throughout the straightening process. These instructions will probably include:
- Remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything but water.
- Thoroughly brush and floss before putting your aligners back in.
- Clean your aligners once a day by soaking them with Invisalign cleaning crystals for about thirty minutes.
- Limit your intake of sugary, starchy, or acidic items like candy, pastries, potato chips, juice, and soda pop.
Don’t let poor oral hygiene cause preventable cavities and stains during your Invisalign treatment. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand the best ways to keep your realignment process on track.
About the Practice
Sweet Smiles Family Dentistry offers the finest oral healthcare in Mt. Pleasant. Led by Drs. Zahir Siddiqui and Sumit Chanana, the staff treats each patient with courtesy, respect, and compassionate customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign. To learn more about taking care of your teeth while wearing Invisalign clear aligners, contact the office online or dial (262) 672-2393.