One of the benefits of wearing Invisalign over traditional braces is that you get to eat whatever you want. However, you should still be consuming sugary and acidic treats and beverages in moderation and properly cleaning your teeth. While aligners cover and shield your teeth, you can’t neglect your oral hygiene routine. Here’s why you can still get cavities if you have Invisalign.
Getting Cavities While Wearing Invisalign
A common question asked by those considering Invisalign is, “Is it still possible to get cavities if I have Invisalign?”. The short answer is, yes. Many people believe that because the clear aligners go over your teeth, you won’t get cavities. However, one of the main benefits of Invisalign is that it is removable. You should be taking your aligners off every time you’re eating and putting them back on afterward.
Since your Invisalign is removable by design, your natural teeth are coming in contact with whatever you’re eating just as they normally would. So, you’re just as likely to get cavities as before your Invisalign treatment. As a result, you need to be just as careful with your oral health.
How to Prevent Cavities
Food particles can get trapped beneath your aligners or between your teeth. If you’re not actively maintaining good oral hygiene and properly cleaning your aligners, you’re increasing your risk for tooth decay.
In order to prevent cavities during your Invisalign treatment, you should do the following:
How to Properly Clean Your Aligners
You should clean your aligners every time you’re brushing your teeth. To do so, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and water to clean all the crevices in your Invisalign trays. Every so often, you can deep clean your aligners by soaking them in recommended cleaners such as the Invisalign Cleaning Crystals. This will keep bacteria and food particles off of your Invisalign so you won’t get cavities.
About the Author
Dr. Alex J. Johnson is a Palm Harbor orthodontist with over 30 years of experience enhancing his patients’ smiles. He first studied at the University of South Florida and then pursued his dental doctorate, master’s, and Orthodontic Certificate at Washington University. If you’re looking to start Invisalign to get your dream smile in just 12 to 18 months, contact Dr. Johnson through his website or by phone at (727) 786-7550.