Invisalign is one of the most popular ways of straightening teeth that does not involve the hassle of traditional braces. Because you can remove these aligners, enjoying your meals is much easier. All you need to do is remove them before enjoying your favorite dishes. However, is your oral health safe while you are receiving this orthodontic treatment? You might be surprised to know the answer.
Can You Get Cavities With Clear Aligners?
Yes, you can still get cavities while wearing these clear aligners. Proper oral hygiene with Invisalign is important to reduce the risk of decay. Plague can accumulate quickly when food particles and bacteria get trapped between your teeth and aligners. Moreover, this can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and cavities.
Drinking anything other than water during the treatment can make the condition severe. Acidic and sugary drinks seep into your aligners and stay in contact with your teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Thus, if you are undergoing Invisalign in Woodbridge, maintaining proper oral health is a must to avoid dental problems like plaque buildup and cavities.
How to Prevent Cavities During the Treatment?
Avoiding cavities while wearing this orthodontic appliance is relatively easy, and here is what you need to do:
Take Care of Your Teeth
Brushing and flossing are the best defenses against cavities. Thus, make sure to brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily. Moreover, brush your teeth before you put back your aligners. This removes food particles and bacteria that could get trapped otherwise.
Be Mindful of Your Diet
Unlike traditional tooth-aligning appliances, there is no need to avoid certain foods. Sugary and sticky foods linger on your teeth even after brushing, making them prone to cavities. Thus, knowing the foods to avoid with Invisalign is essential to keep your teeth in great shape.
Keep Your Aligners Clean
Your teeth straightening appliance requires care similar to that of your natural teeth. A reliable dentist recommends brushing, rinsing, and soaking them in a cleaning solution. Dirty aligners trap bacteria on your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities.
Avoid Skipping Dental Checkups
Regular visits to a trustworthy orthodontist are crucial during the Invisalign treatment timeline. These checkups detect potential problems early, ensuring the treatment and oral health are on the right track.
Wearing clear aligners does not mean you are no longer prone to cavities. Moreover, it is even more important to keep your teeth clean while you use this orthodontic appliance. When you brush, floss, clean your trays, and make smart dietary choices, you can prevent cavities and maintain a healthy smile. If you need further assistance aligning your teeth or maintaining optimal oral health, book an appointment at our clinic today!