Invisalign continues to gain popularity as a clear alternative to traditional orthodontics for patients seeking a more discreet way to straighten their smiles. Unlike standard braces, which utilize bulky metallic brackets and wires, this service relies on transparent trays that fit snugly over your arches to gently shift your teeth over a designated period.
It’s natural to have questions before starting this treatment, like whether you can still get cavities with the plastic aligners covering your teeth. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect and how to safeguard your smile!
How Does Invisalign Work?
Many patients opt for this method over standard orthodontics because the clear trays are considered less invasive. They’re removable, meaning that there are no dietary restrictions, and they won’t cut the tender tissues inside your mouth like sharp wires and brackets. Plus, they allow your natural smile to shine through, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you look like the best version of yourself.
However, you must wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours daily to prevent your teeth from reverting to their previous positions. Then, after a week or two, your dentist will provide the next trays in your series to account for the ongoing movement of your teeth.
Can I Get Cavities with Invisalign?
Many patients assume that because Invisalign covers their teeth, it shields their pearly whites from potential tooth decay. However, the truth is that bacteria and any leftover bits of food in your mouth can become trapped in the space between your enamel and your aligners all day and night, giving them plenty of time to thrive.
Unfortunately, this can increase the risk of developing oral issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease. That means it’s more important than ever that you implement positive dental hygiene habits to safeguard your smile.
How Can I Protect My Grin During Treatment?
Keeping your mouth and aligners clean can help prevent common concerns, like periodontal infections or cavities. That means you should remove your trays morning and night to gently scrub all their surfaces with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear dish soap. Then, be sure to rinse them off so you don’t ingest any cleaning supplies.
You should also thoroughly brush and floss your teeth before reinserting your clear trays to ensure that you’re putting them back into a clean space. It can also help to briefly rinse them under running water after eating, but avoid overly hot temperatures that can warp the plastic.
You’ll also be required to schedule a follow-up every four to eight weeks so your provider can monitor your dental health to catch and treat any areas of concern, like thinning enamel, that might interfere with your treatment!
Meet the Author
Dr. Ira Newman is passionate about helping people improve their daily quality of life by enhancing their dental well-being. He earned his dental degree from the Emory University School of Dentistry and is a member of several prestigious institutions, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Today, he offers a range of biomimetic restorative and aesthetic services to help patients build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles, including Invisalign. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (212) 924-6890.
