Tips for Taking Care of Your Invisalign® Trays

Invisalign® is one of the most popular orthodontic treatments in the country. Over 14 million Americans have chosen Invisalign for straighter teeth because treatment is discreet, comfortable, and effective.

If you're getting ready to start your journey to a picture-perfect smile, Austin Advanced Dentistry is here to help. Aditi Saxena, DDS, and Viridiana Wheeler, DDS, specialize in orthodontics, and we're ready to help you get the best results from your Invisalign treatment.

Taking proper care of your trays during treatment is essential, and here are our top tips.

Wear your Invisalign trays as directed

The most important thing you can do during Invisalign treatment is to wear your trays as directed. We'll give you specific instructions — but in most cases, you should wear your trays for at least 20-22 hours daily.

Remove your trays only when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. Wearing your trays more often than you should ensures your treatment and results.

Avoid eating or drinking with your Invisalign trays in

You can drink water while wearing your Invisalign trays. But for all other beverages and any foods, remove your trays.

If you don’t remove your trays when you eat and drink, food particles can get trapped between your teeth and trays, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Eating and drinking with your trays in can also damage your teeth and damage or stain the trays.

Keep your trays in a safe place

When you're not wearing your Invisalign trays, keeping them in a safe place is essential. Always store your trays in their case to protect them from damage or loss. Avoid leaving your trays in a hot car or exposing them to direct sunlight because heat can cause warping or discoloration.

Brush and floss regularly

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment. Remove your trays to brush your teeth, brush at least twice daily, and floss once daily.

Regular brushing and flossing help remove food particles or plaque trapped between your teeth and trays. This can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

Clean your Invisalign trays daily

Cleaning your Invisalign trays daily is essential for brushing and flossing your teeth.

Clean your trays by gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water to prevent bacteria and plaque buildup. You can also soak your trays in a solution of water, denture cleaner, or Invisalign cleaning crystals to help remove any stubborn stains or odors.

Avoid using toothpaste or other abrasive cleaners because they can scratch the surface of your trays and make them more visible in your mouth.

Avoid using mouthwash with alcohol

Some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth and damage your Invisalign trays. Be sure to choose an alcohol-free mouthwash, or check us for the best recommendations.

Schedule regular checkups

You wear each set of Invisalign trays for about two weeks, then get a new set. While you may not need to visit the office for an appointment each time, regular checkups are crucial. 

During treatment, we monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you have questions, we can guide you on properly caring for your trays and adjusting to life with Invisalign.

Invisalign is a convenient and effective option for orthodontic treatment — but taking care of your trays is key to getting the best results. Learn more about Invisalign and find out if it's right for you with a consultation at Austin Advanced Dentistry. Call us at 512-331-6677 or request an appointment online now.