Although many patients consider their overcrowded teeth more of an aesthetic concern than an actual dental problem, the truth is that misalignments can detract from your appearance and your oral health. If they overlap, it’s harder to keep them clean, which increases your vulnerability to common issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Fortunately, your dentist can straighten your smile with Invisalign, but you must continue to care for your teeth carefully to prevent problems during treatment. Continue reading to learn more about avoiding cavities with Invisalign!
What is Invisalign?
Unlike traditional braces, this alternative orthodontic method utilizes transparent plastic trays that fit snugly over your teeth to gently shift them to their ideal places. It’s considered more comfortable and less invasive than bulky metal brackets because the smooth material doesn’t cut the tender tissues inside your mouth. Plus, Invisalign is removable, so you can continue enjoying all your favorite foods.
However, you must wear the trays for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent your teeth from relapsing. Then, after about a week or two, your dentist will provide the next set in your series to account for their ongoing movement. Most patients complete treatment within 12 to 18 months, which is usually shorter than the anticipated 18 to 24+ months it takes braces to straighten your grin.
Can I Get Cavities During Invisalign?
Clear aligners can trap leftover food and bacteria over your teeth and gums for 20+ hours daily, giving germs plenty of opportunity to thrive. Eventually, they can form a layer of plaque on your teeth, gums, and the clear plastic trays that contribute to periodontal problems and cavities. Not only that, but it can leave your otherwise transparent orthodontics looking cloudy, yellow, or with an unpleasant smell that impacts your breath.
How Can I Prevent Dental Problems During Invisalign?
Thankfully, you can avoid many common oral issues by implementing a consistent daily dental hygiene routine. You should remove your trays both morning and night to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly to keep them clean and healthy. You should also gently scrub the aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear dish soap that won’t abrade the materials.
You can also rinse or brush your teeth after meals to avoid trapping leftover food against them when you reinsert your clear aligners after eating. Also, be sure to wash the carrying case periodically with soap and water to remove any germs that may have accumulated there over time. You can also soak them for 15 minutes daily in special Invisalign Cleaning Crystals intended to remove up to 99% of bacteria without harming the plastic.
Another easy and effective way to keep your smile healthy throughout your Invisalign treatment is to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your provider! This allows them to catch and address any areas of concern, like thinning enamel, before it progresses and interrupts your treatment timeline.
Meet the Author
Dr. Kelly Thanh has more than 25 years of experience helping families enhance their lives by improving their dental health. She earned her DDS degree from the University of the Pacific before completing a residency at Oakland Children’s Hospital and two years of post-graduate studies in orthodontics. Today, she offers a comprehensive menu of services to meet all your needs at one convenient location, including cosmetics. She has been a Gold and Silver Invisalign Provider since 2017 and is certified to offer Six Month Smile services. If you’re frustrated by a crooked grin, she’s an expert who is happy to help. You can request an appointment on the website or call (408) 972-2835.