To some patients, Invisalign aligners seem like tiny shields for your teeth. That’s because the clear plastic trays fit comfortably over your entire arch, keeping them free of saliva and water that you may drink while they’re in your mouth. But just because they appear to be guarding you from outside dangers, the truth is, your Invisalign aligners weren’t designed to protect your smile from harm. In fact, caring for your teeth and gums during Invisalign treatment is even more important than usual! Here’s why.
Why Invisalign Aligners Won’t Protect You from Cavities
Although your Invisalign aligners can prevent fluids like saliva and beverages from touching your teeth while you’re wearing them, it is for this exact reason that they cannot protect you from cavities. You see, your saliva plays a key role in protecting your smile by washing away bits of food and bacteria that accumulate on your teeth. When you are wearing an Invisalign tray, it cannot access your teeth. Thus, between the lack of moisture and the plastic barrier covering them, debris can easily become trapped against them, thereby increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Furthermore, because you must remove your trays to eat or drink anything besides water, they cannot protect your teeth during meals, because you won’t be wearing them.
How to Prevent Cavities During Invisalign Treatment
The great news is that it’s still extremely easy to prevent cavities during treatment with Invisalign. In fact, that’s one of its major benefits. You see, your aligners were designed to be conveniently removed for meals and oral hygiene, so you can not only still enjoy a full diet with no restrictions during treatment, but you can also properly care for your teeth before putting them back on. This will ensure that your mouth stays clean and healthy despite wearing your aligners for 22 hours each day.
In addition to keeping your teeth and gums tidy, be sure to keep your aligners spotless, too. Whenever you remove them from your mouth, be sure to brush and rinse them well before putting them back on. Furthermore, it’s important that you never sneak a snack or beverage with them in, even if it’s just a sip. This can cause the liquid to become trapped against your teeth, as well as discoloration or odors in your trays.
If you do notice any signs of a cavity forming, such as a spot on your teeth, sudden sensitivity, or a throbbing or aching that doesn’t go away within 24 hours, please contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Remember, although your Invisalign trays may seem like protective shields, they weren’t designed to protect your teeth from cavities or decay. Thus, be sure to remove them each time you eat or drink anything but water, and brush and floss before putting them back on. With proper hygiene, it’s possible to enjoy a cavity free smile while undergoing Invisalign treatment!
About Our Practice
At Palm Dental Professionals, our team of highly skilled and caring dentists, Dr. Christopher Rodriguez and Dr. Kaitlin Rodriguez, are proud to provide a variety of beneficial dental treatments in one convenient location. If you’d like to change the alignment of your smile with the help of Invisalign, we’re here to help. To schedule a consultation and learn more about this discreet, comfortable way to align your smile, visit our website or call us directly at 561-404-4325.