Wearing a retainer used to be an extremely uncomfortable experience. Invisalign Retainers – a clear tooth-aligning orthodontic device – truly revolutionized the retainer by creating a comfortable, non-disruptive set of aligners that produce effective orthodontic results. They are not only visibly undisruptive, but also relatively easier to maintain when compared to traditional metal retainers as well. In this article, we discuss 5 effective ways to clean and care for a pair of Invisalign retainers with practical tips that you can incorporate into your day-to-day life to increase the durability of the product.
1. Rinse and soak regularly
Consistency is the most important factor when you clean and care for an Invisalign retainer. Make it a habit to rinse your retainers with clean water every time you take them off. At night, remember to rinse the aligner with lukewarm water and use the specialized cleaning crystals recommended and provided by your orthodontist in NE Calgary to soak the aligners. Cleaning them regularly is essential since you need to wear them for over 20 hours a day in order for the treatment to be successful.
2. Brush using a soft anti-bacterial soap
Your retainer needs to be brushed properly with a soft-bristled brush using an anti-bacterial soap that is not too harsh. The durability and the effectiveness of the product largely depend on how gentle you are when you clean and care for your Invisalign retainer. Use circular motions and make sure you brush all the corners and crevices of the product. Do not use any toothpaste since it can negatively impact the clear surface of the retainer, reducing its advantage of being nearly “invisible”.
3. Do not consume foods or drinks while wearing retainers
One of the biggest benefits of Invisalign in NE Calgary products is that they can be easily taken off before you consume any foods or drinks. Use this advantage and remember to always remove your retainer before eating or drinking. The coloring used in drinks has the ability to stain the clear retainer, which can be hard to clean off and revoke its “invisible” nature. Food can also get inside of the product and leave it with an unpleasant smell.
4. Make regular visits to the dentist
Visiting your dentist every 6 weeks is often a part of your overall treatment in order for your orthodontist to monitor your progress and replace the aligners when the new ones are created. It is important for you to learn how to properly clean and care for an Invisalign retainer from the beginning of your treatment period. This way your orthodontist can correct you if you are not doing it correctly. If you see any staining or damage on your aligner due to a lack of proper cleaning, make sure you consult your orthodontist before wearing it.
5. Practice good oral hygiene
Brushing your own teeth and making sure you follow a thorough oral hygiene routine is just as important as when you clean and care for an Invisalign retainer. You need to ensure that your teeth do not have any plaque buildup since it can develop faster when wearing a retainer for a long period of time.