Electric toothbrushes can be used safely with Invisalign. In fact, they’re preferred in this case. Ensure gentle brushing to clean both your teeth and the aligners. Simple, consistent care is key.
What shouldn’t you do with an Invisalign on
When wearing Invisalign, it’s important to avoid certain behaviors to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and the durability of the aligners. Here are some things you shouldn’t do with Invisalign:
- Eating and Drinking (Except Water): While Invisalign is removable, it’s crucial to remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water. Consuming food or beverages can lead to staining, and in the case of hot drinks, it can distort the aligners.
- Smoking: Smoking is discouraged while wearing Invisalign. Tobacco can stain the aligners, and the heat from smoking may also affect their shape.
- Chewing Gum: Chewing gum while wearing Invisalign is not recommended. Gum can stick to the aligners and be difficult to clean. Moreover, excessive chewing may affect the fit of the aligners.
- Neglecting Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during Invisalign treatment. Ensure that you brush your teeth before putting the aligners back in to prevent trapping food particles and bacteria between your teeth and the aligners.
- Using Harsh Cleaning Products: When cleaning your Invisalign aligners, avoid using abrasive toothpaste or harsh cleaning products, as they can scratch the aligners, making them more visible.
- Biting or Clicking the Aligners in Place: While putting in or removing the aligners, avoid biting or clicking them into place. This can damage the aligners and affect their effectiveness.
- Not Wearing Them Consistently: For optimal results, it’s essential to wear your Invisalign aligners for the recommended amount of time each day. Failing to do so can prolong the treatment process.
- Skipping Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your orthodontist are crucial during Invisalign treatment. Skipping appointments may hinder the progress of your treatment.
Is it OK to use mouthwash with Invisalign?
Yes, it is generally okay to use mouthwash with Invisalign. Opt for an alcohol-free, clear mouthwash to avoid any potential damage or discoloration to the aligners. The important message here is not to use mouthwashes as an alternative to brushing. For sure they help in maintaining healthy teeth, however, only as a secondary measure.
Why does your breath smell with Invisalign?
Wearing Invisalign can sometimes lead to bad breath due to factors like trapped food particles and reduced saliva flow. The aligners create a snug fit against your teeth, providing spaces where bacteria can accumulate.
This, combined with the reduced oxygen flow to your mouth, can contribute to the development of odor-causing bacteria. It’s important to maintain thorough oral hygiene by brushing your teeth and cleaning your Invisalign aligners regularly to minimize any potential for bad breath.
Additionally, the nature of Invisalign treatment may lead to changes in your oral environment. For instance, wearing the aligners can cause your mouth to produce less saliva, which normally helps cleanse the mouth of bacteria.
Staying well-hydrated and practicing good oral habits, such as cleaning your aligners and teeth diligently, can help alleviate bad breath while undergoing Invisalign treatment. If the issue persists, consulting with your orthodontist or dentist may provide personalized advice and solutions.
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