Whether you call them Invisalign braces, aligners, clear plastic removable braces, or simply retainers, Invisalign offers patients seeking straight teeth and a brilliant new smile numerous benefits compared to traditional fixed metal braces. One of the key advantages is the ability to remove your clear braces whenever necessary.

The most obvious benefit of removable Invisalign aligners is the freedom to eat the foods you love. None of your favourite foods are off-limits. Removable braces also allow you to brush your teeth as usual, eliminating any food particles that may have become stuck between your teeth. However, the ease and convenience of Invisalign can sometimes lead to complacency in maintaining your Invisalign braces in the best possible condition. With this in mind, our Sheffield Invisalign dentists have created a list of dos and don’ts for maintaining your Invisalign aligners.

Keep Invisalign Braces Safe When Not Wearing Them

Always store your clear aligners in the protective case provided once you’ve removed them. This helps keep them clean and prevents them from getting lost or bent out of shape. You’d be amazed how often we hear from patients that “the dog chewed my braces!”

Avoid Drinking Tea, Coffee, or Other Hot Drinks When Wearing Invisalign Braces

You must remove your aligners whenever eating or drinking. Invisalign is made from plastic, which is perfect for its durability and flexibility but is vulnerable to changing shape if heated.

Clean Invisalign Trays Thoroughly

Wearing your clear aligners daily often leads to a build-up of plaque or dry saliva on the inside of your trays. This can result in bacteria build-up, which may cause the trays to smell unpleasant. To avoid this, rinse your aligners thoroughly under cold water each time you remove them. For a more thorough clean, you can brush them gently with a toothbrush or use a clear anti-bacterial soft soap.

Brush and Floss Teeth Before Wearing Your Invisalign Aligners

The best way to prevent bacteria build-up in your trays is to keep your teeth and gums as clean as possible. Rinse your mouth and floss or use inter-dental brushes after eating and drinking.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your Invisalign aligners remain in excellent condition, helping you achieve the best possible results from your treatment.