Now that you have Invisalign, you may be excited to get to your final results. You’ll have to wear clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day and clean them after every meal. If not, then you risk delays or increase your odds of cavities. While you may think you can’t get any decay, it’s still a possibility! Keep reading to learn how and in what ways you can keep your smile protected.
How Can I Get Cavities During Invisalign?
Although your clear aligners can act like a shield to your teeth by covering them, this doesn’t mean that you are immune to cavities. Bacteria can still find their way underneath your trays and on your teeth. This can mainly happen if you don’t properly clean out your smile and Invisalign.
Since you’ll have to wear them for most of the day, plaque can linger longer than it should and can cause problems. They’ll eat any sugar and starch particles stuck in your smile and produce an acid that dissolves your enamel. This will eventually create cavities that are bad news for your treatment.
Do I Need to Visit My Dentist If I Get a Cavity?
In short, yes! It’s important that you visit your dentist right away. Unfortunately, oral health issues can’t go away on their own, so any decay will continue to worsen until it’s taken care of. By catching it early, you can get an easy filling that typically doesn’t cause any problems with your aligners. You’ll also be able to avoid any toothaches or sensitivity as well!
What Can I Do to Prevent Cavities During Invisalign?
Invisalign is an investment in your smile, so you should take the time to protect your grin. You’re spending a lot of time getting to results you love, and any delays will only push it back. The good news is that following these easy tips can help keep your treatment going smoothly:
- Clean your aligners with a soft-bristle toothbrush and clear, gentle soap. Do this at least once a day, but twice is even better. This can help remove bacteria on your trays.
- Brush and floss your teeth after eating to get rid of any plaque.
- Limit your sugar intake, as indulging too often can increase your chances of cavities.
- Do not eat or drink anything other than water when wearing Invisalign. That way, nothing can get trapped underneath or damage your trays.
One of the best things you can do is have routine checkups with your dentist. Not only will they ensure that your smile is shifting properly, but they can also catch and treat any oral health issues. That way, your treatment stays going smoothly and gets you to your results efficiently.
About the Practice
At Smiles in Shelby, you benefit from the compassionate leadership of Dr. Shawn Van de Vyver and Dr. Erin Leppek. We are happy to help the community get the straighter grins they love with Invisalign. Our team sticks with you every step of the way, so you can feel your best getting your healthier bite. If you’re interested in starting clear aligners, schedule an appointment or call our office at (586) 677-2828.