Invisalign & Oral Hygiene- Keeping Your Teeth Clean & Healthy

Invisalign provides patients with clear aligners to straighten their teeth and correct bite issues. In Cary, NC, residents recognize the importance of oral health. They know that maintaining good oral hygiene can protect their teeth and gums from possible dangers. 

These aligners are not only designed to protect teeth and provide alignment effectively, but they also serve aesthetic purposes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that while these aligners are very effective, they also need proper oral hygiene care in order to maintain their durability. 

Furthermore, with aligners, you can still continue to brush your teeth and floss properly, as you did before getting the aligners. They do not restrict you from brushing your teeth or flossing, as seen with the braces, while braces do not wholly limit you from doing so, but they make it difficult for you to clean your teeth properly. 

It increases the chances of accumulation from bacteria and possible oral health issues. Having aligners protects your teeth from bacteria and any buildup as well. A facility for invisalign Cary, NC, provides a better outcome for your teeth. 

 

Why is it essential to maintain proper oral hygiene while having aligners on?

You have to wear your aligners for at least twenty-two hours a day; this gives space for bacteria to attack your teeth. If they accumulate, they can form plaque, which needs to be taken care of by proper brushing and flossing. 

Otherwise, the buildup can lead to different dental issues. If you ignore your oral hygiene, you are increasing your chances of developing other dental problems, such as:

  1. The formation of cavities and the chances of decay also increase.
  2. The issues of inflammation of gums and other periodontal-related problems also become more common.
  3. When bacteria accumulate, they also cause bad breath. 

 

How can you maintain proper oral hygiene with aligners on?

There are various tips that one can follow to maintain proper oral hygiene; let us look at some of them:

  • Flossing and brushing on a regular basis:

If you want to fight against the accumulation of bacteria and plaque, brushing correctly and flossing are the two things that you need to ensure:

  1. It is recommended that you use fluoride toothpaste for brushing.
  2. Brushing should be done at least twice a day.
  3. Flossing needs to be done every single day, too. It helps get any bacteria out from in between the teeth. 
  4. Make sure you properly wash your mouth before you put your aligners back on. 

When you stick to this routine, you are going to ensure good oral health for your teeth, even when you have aligners.

  • Try not to eat when you have your aligners on:

You are advised to take your aligners off when you have to eat something. If you keep your aligners on when you are eating or drinking something, you increase the chances of your aligners getting stained. 

Try to make it your habit that you do not have anything except water with your aligners. Rest, you can have any of your favorite foods, and then once you are done eating, you can put them back on.

  1. When you are putting your aligners back on, make sure you have brushed your teeth before. 
  2. Limit the consumption of acidic drinks and other sugary food items, as it can have an adverse impact on your tooth enamel. 

 

  • Keep drinking water:

Make sure you are staying hydrated while you have your aligners. You do not have to take them off for drinking water, but this is the only exception. Staying hydrated prevents various issues, such as getting a dry mouth that gives way to bacteria. 

 

Get your aligners today!

If you are looking for a durable, practical, and comfortable option for fixing your misaligned teeth, clear aligners are what you need to get for yourself. Book your appointment today with a good dentist and get started with the treatment.