Invisalign is probably the best choice for the people of all ages to straighten their teeth. But the most important thing they often ignore is how to clean the aligner to ensure its best condition. After you undergo Invisalign in London, you will be advised to replace it at an interval of 2 weeks. But in the meantime, you need to clean it in proper manner.
This blog exactly means to guide you through the best cleaning methods available for Invisalign along a glimpse of what research says. So, don’t miss to read it out.
A quick glimpse on best practice of Invisalign
Before, we jump directly into the cleaning methods; you must know that night cleaning is not only correct approach for your precious aligner.
According to a study in Journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, pathogens available on the invisible aligner undergo a drastic shift in every 2-6 week.
3 approaches have been studied vigorously:
- Water rinsing
- Brushing and use of effervescent tablets
- Brushing your Invisalign with toothbrush and toothpaste
The verdict of the study says use of effervescent tablets and brushing is the most effective cleaning method for the clear aligner. Also, they determined that brushing is quite inferior to the use of tablets.
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Rinsing vs. Cleaning: Which is better for your Invisalign
Many claim that rinsing is enough for aligner while some claim that cleaning is adequate and a must to ensure good health of the Invisalign. A prevalent debate is everywhere especially amongst the people who have performed it.
However, the fact is a fine line of difference is there between rinsing and cleaning as far as Invisalign is concerned. Rinsing will make it appear clear only but the bacteria will continue hosting their party in the device.
So, it is evident that you need proper cleaning to get rid of those bacteria as they can do harm not only to the device but also to your overall oral and dental health.
Here are a few steps you can follow for proper cleaning of the transparent aligner after you get the treatment using attractive Invisalign offer in London:
- Rinse the aligner well with water at night.
- Use a separate soft-bristled brush to clean the Invisalign using fragrance-free, colour-free liquid soap for effective removal of food particles and debris accumulated all over the day.
- Rinse the aligner properly after brushing.
- When you are not using the aligner store them in the provided protected case.
Cleaning equipment
Invisalign always comes with tray that consists of natural antiseptic, sodium bicarbonate and rubbing alcohol. You can also find cleaning crystals that dissolves in water to clean the aligner by soaking it in the solution.
These crystals are compound of several cleaning agents along with sodium sulphate. The ingredients are much similar to that of agents used for cleaning retainers (excluding denture retainers). However, these are proven not only to be effective but also more accessible and affordable substitute.
What is the correct frequency of cleaning the aligner?
One must clean the aligner every night at the time of your brushing and flossing. This crucial step will ensure eradication of accumulated bacteria, debris and food-particles.
Also, try to clean the aligner when you feel the need and it appears not clear. Remember, to pop them out before you are going to grab anything or drink any beverage (excluding water). In case, you grab something in your mouth accidentally while the Invisalign is still there then remove it after you finish and clean it.
Besides, a thorough cleaning, you should keep rinsing the aligner every time you remove it. Although, a set of aligner needs replacement after every 2 week yet cleaning is worth. Otherwise, the device will be a hosting ground for bacteria making it unhealthy to use. Also, stained device can impose adverse effect on the dental health hindering the entire teeth straightening procedure. In worst case scenario, you may end up getting decay and cavity as well. Consult with your orthodontist about the most lucrative Invisalign deals in London to get it done without breaking your bank.
Are there any cleaners you should avoid?
While you are about to clean your aligner, must pay heed to the cleansers as some of them are quite damaging and harsh on the Invisalign aligner. Some notable of them are:
- Toothpaste
- Fragrant soaps
- Mouthwash containing alcohol
- Denture cleaners
Also, you should abstain from the use of cleansing soaps with added dyes and colours. These will stain the aligner making it inapt to use for a long time of 2 weeks.
If you prefer brushing the Invisalign then try to use the one with soft-bristle. Otherwise, harshness can damage the device which will hinder your teeth straightening process.
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Best practices for best care of your aligner
Now, this section will let you know some tried-and-tested methods to clean the aligner. Apart from cleaning the Invisalign, this will ensure proper care of the device to continue with the treatment perfectly. Some methods are in the following:
- Remove the aligner always before having food. Or else, food particles can stain or damage them losing its efficacy.
- Don’t drink or eat anything except water if the aligner is in. There is a huge probability of damaging the device.
- Avoid the use of hot water to rinse or clean the Invisalign tray.
- Keep the aligner in the airtight container when not in use. It will reduce the likeness of losing and exposing them to the bacteria.
These best practices will ensure best care of the aligner and your treatment will remain intact.
Summary
Invisalign is a remarkable method for orthodontic issue. However, one should keep proper care of the aligner tray so that it works effectively.
Regular proper care will maintain cleanliness and transparency of the device. However, you need to dispose them off after every 2 weeks yet subjecting to harsh cleaning methods including hot water and abrasive brush can affect the shape and efficacy of the aligner.
If you need cleaning assistance for the aligner, consult with the dentist at Smile Clinic London. They can offer the most recommended methods of cleaning that will keep the aligner in highest working condition and improved oral health.