Invisalign Care: What to Do and Not Do

June 3, 2024

Woman smiling while holding up her Invisalign

Invisalign aligners might seem like a miracle tool. They can straighten your teeth in a low-profile, comfortable way. However, there’s definitely a right and wrong way to take care of them! Just because they are a fantastic alignment solution doesn’t mean that they’re invincible.

To make sure your Invisalign trays last, stay invisible, and deliver desirable results, take note of these do’s and don’ts.

Do This for Your Invisalign Trays

These are the habits you should maintain if you want your Invisalign treatment to go smoothly. They’re fairly simple, so don’t skip out on them!

#1. Clean Your Invisalign Daily

You should be taking care of your Invisalign aligners in much the same way you would your natural teeth. Because like your teeth, your Invisalign trays can accumulate bacteria throughout the day. Failing to give them a scrub in the morning, at night, and between meals could risk your oral health and stain your aligners.

#2. Wear Your Invisalign All the Time

It’s nice that you’re able to remove your aligners. Eating is much easier and more comfortable with your own teeth than with metal braces. But removing Invisalign too often prevents them from adjusting your teeth! If you’re not soaking them for a quick hour or two, you should be wearing them.

#3. Except When You Eat or Drink

Even if you’re consuming something “simple”, you could stain or damage your aligners. That goes for beverages too – the only thing you should be enjoying with your Invisalign on is crystal clear water.

Don’t Do This to Your Invisalign Trays!

On the other hand, these are the habits you will want to avoid. Feel free to skip them as much as you want.

#1. Switch Trays Whenever You Feel Like It

Putting in your next-step trays too early or too late will mess with the way your teeth are straightened. For the best treatment results, you should simply follow your dentist’s schedule.

#2. Leave Them Out

Leaving your Invisalign on a table or sofa somewhere exposes them to two dangers: bacteria and accidents. Dogs in particular are drawn to dental trays, and you can probably imagine what would happen if your furry friend got a hold of your aligners.

#3. Use Harsh Cleaning Chemicals

While you want to keep your Invisalign clean, you also don’t want them to deteriorate due to harsh chemicals. Abrasive products will give them a rough, unappealing surface. Even hot water can warp the plastic, so it’s best to stick to gentle toothpastes and whatever your dentist recommends.

Double-Check with Your Dentist

It can be difficult to remember all the details of Invisalign maintenance – no one will blame you for that! If you forget something or have other questions, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist. They’ll help you take care of your aligners so that you can enjoy beautifully straight teeth as soon as possible.

About the Author

Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana prioritizes personalized care and high-quality treatment. That’s why he proudly offers Invisalign for correcting dental alignment! He knows that this effective solution provides patients with more flexibility. But Dr. Rana also knows that each patient will have their own unique teeth-straightening journey. If you have questions about Invisalign or want maintenance advice, he’ll be happy to help! You can contact his office at 469-399-7288 or visit his website for more information.