Maintaining Invisalign Treatment for Children and Teens
Invisalign has revolutionized orthodontic treatment, offering a discreet, comfortable alternative to traditional braces that’s perfect for responsible children, teens, and adults. However, achieving the best results with Invisalign requires proper care and maintenance. Whether you’re considering Invisalign for your teen or yourself, or already wearing clear aligners, our experienced team at Dental Care Group Kids offers expert cleaning tips to ensure you have the best treatment possible.
Do you or your teen dream of a straighter smile? At Dental Care Group Kids, we offer custom Invisalign treatment for teens and adults as part of our comprehensive family dental care in Aventura and Pembroke Pines. Contact our Aventura office at (305) 935-1613 or our Pembroke Pines office at (954) 430-2300 to schedule your consultation.
How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners
Clean Your Clear Aligners Daily
Dirty aligners can harbor bacteria, cause odors, and become cloudy. To keep them fresh:
- Rinse with Lukewarm Water: Rinse your aligners every time you remove them to wash away saliva and plaque.
- Brush Gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your aligners. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
- Use Invisalign Cleaning Crystals: These specially designed crystals dissolve stains and bacteria. Soak your aligners for 15 minutes daily for optimal results.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use mouthwash, bleach, or colored soaps, as they can damage or discolor your aligners.
Wear Your Aligners as Directed
For Invisalign aligners to work effectively, you must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day. Only remove them for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing. Switching to new aligners on schedule (typically every one to two weeks) is also critical to staying on track.
Store Aligners Properly
When not in use, store your aligners in their protective case to prevent loss or damage. Avoid leaving them exposed to air, as this can promote bacterial growth. Never wrap them in a napkin, as they’re easy to accidentally throw away.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Brush and floss after every meal before reinserting your aligners to prevent trapping food particles or bacteria. Regular dental checkups with our experienced team will ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy during treatment.
Avoid Staining Foods and Drinks
While you can remove aligners to eat and drink, be mindful of beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, or soda that can stain your aligners if consumed while wearing them. Always remove aligners and rinse your mouth before reinserting them.
Our team’s pro tip: Create a daily Invisalign care routine to stay consistent. Set reminders to clean your aligners and track your wear time. To schedule an Invisalign consultation, contact Dental Care Group Kids today at (305) 935-1613 for Aventura or (954) 430-2300 for Pembroke Pines.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Caring for Invisalign Aligners
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes that can compromise your Invisalign treatment. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Skipping Cleaning: Failing to clean your aligners regularly can lead to buildup and odors
- Using Hot Water: High temperatures can distort aligners, making them less effective
- Eating with Aligners On: This can damage aligners and trap food, increasing the risk of cavities
- Not Wearing Aligners Enough: Removing aligners for too long each day can delay progress
- Ignoring Dental Checkups: Regular visits to our Aventura or Pembroke Pines offices are essential to monitor your treatment and oral health
Invisalign Aligner Care for Busy Lifestyles
One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign is its flexibility, making it ideal for busy professionals, students, and parents. Here’s how to integrate Invisalign clear aligner care into your hectic schedule:
- Set Cleaning Reminders: Use your or your child’s phone to remind you to clean your aligners morning and night.
- Carry a Travel Kit: Keep a small bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and your aligner case for on-the-go care.
- Plan Meals Around Aligner Wear: Remove aligners during meals but reinsert them promptly to meet the 20 to 22-hour daily requirement.
- Schedule Dental Visits in Advance: Book appointments with our team every six to eight weeks to stay on track without disrupting your routine.
Why Regular Dental Checkups Matter During Invisalign Treatment
While Invisalign treatment focuses on maintaining your aligners, don’t overlook the importance of professional dental care. Regular checkups with our experienced team at Dental Care Group Kids ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout treatment. Our doctors can:
- Monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if needed
- Address any oral health issues like cavities or gum inflammation
- Provide personalized Invisalign tips based on your unique needs
Aim to visit our practice every six to eight weeks or as recommended. These appointments are critical for staying on track and avoiding complications. To schedule an appointment, contact our Aventura office at (305) 935-1613 or our Pembroke Pines office at (954) 430-2300.