Taking care of clear braces is easier than having to deal with traditional metal braces. Clear braces are removable devices, and this makes a huge difference in how easy it is to maintain them.
Traditional metal braces require time to clean them because they can be a magnet for food particles and other debris. Food particles being stuck to braces increases a person’s risk of tooth decay because oral bacteria can convert them to acids that damage teeth enamel.
To make things worse, brushing and flossing with braces is no easy task. People with braces often have to use water flossers to remove food particles that are stuck under the metal brackets and wires that make up traditional metal braces.
Taking care of clear braces like Invisalign®
Being able to easily remove clear braces as needed makes oral hygiene and maintaining them easier. Dentists recommend removing clear braces before eating or drinking anything besides water. This prevents coloring agents in foods from staining the appliance, making it more visible when worn.
This also allows people who wear braces to continue to enjoy all their favorite foods because their appliance does not come in contact with the things they eat and drink. It also means that they do not have to waste time cleaning out their device and removing food particles that are stuck on them.
Simple things that patients can do to increase the longevity of their clear braces include:
1. Drink water
Sugary drinks are bad for teeth and are even worse when wearing clear braces. Sugar can get stuck underneath the aligner, and since saliva only makes limited contact with teeth while wearing an aligner tray, the sugar gets to wreak more havoc on teeth enamel than it normally would.
2. Brush after eating
Dentists recommend brushing after meals before reinserting your aligner tray. Doing so helps prevent food particles from being stuck underneath the aligner.
3. Floss daily
Flossing becomes even more important during teeth straightening treatments. Since the contact that saliva makes with teeth is restricted during treatment, keeping interdental spaces clean is essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Dentists recommend those who wear clear braces to floss at least once each day.
4. Get regular teeth cleanings
Teeth cleanings help remove plaque and tartar from teeth surfaces. Tartar is calcified plaque and cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. Regular trips to the dentist ensure that tartar buildups are removed before they cause serious damage.
5. Clean the appliance daily
Clear braces like Invisalign® should be cleaned daily. This can be done by running the appliance under warm water and using a toothbrush and toothpaste. There are also specialized cleaners that can be used to clean clear braces.
Start the journey toward straighter teeth
Call or visit our Atlantis clinic if you have poor teeth alignment. Our dentists will educate you about your different options and get you started with treatment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.atlantisdentist.com or call Atlantis Dental Care P.A. at (561) 965-9988 for an appointment in our Atlantis office.
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