Need some tips on looking after your Invisalign retainer? 5 care tips you need to know!

Unless you have been living on a desert island, it is likely that you have heard of invisible braces.

Designed to be cosmetically appealing while also straightening your teeth, invisible and clear braces have the capability to realign smiles, correct malocclusions and close prominent gaps between teeth. Compared to traditional orthodontic braces, these are hugely popular, particularly with teenagers and young adults.

While these aligners are popular and highly convenient to use, they do require some specific care to keep them functional throughout the course of your treatment. They are not invulnerable to issues such as breaking or becoming stained, so in order to keep them in good condition, you will need to know a bit about their general maintenance.

At Dee Kay Dental, our team can advise you on how to keep your invisible braces in top condition, particularly Invisalign in Gainsborough. We will always endeavour to answer any questions you may have about this cosmetic treatment in jargon-free language, so you will know exactly what to expect during the duration of your treatment.

But what are some of the ways you can keep this invisible aligner in full working order? Read on to find out!

Regular cleaning

One of the key benefits of undertaking treatment with Invisalign in Gainsborough is that this brace is removable.

In the same way that you keep your teeth clean, it is advisable that when you remove this brace to brush your teeth in the morning and evening, you should clean it with water and a mild toothpaste. Our team at Dee Kay Dental will advise you on which solutions are best for keeping these retainers free from food particles which could lead to tooth decay long-term.

Water temperatures

Invisalign in Gainsborough is indeed a sturdy brace.

However, it is important to note that it is made of resin (plastic) which is sensitive to extreme temperatures. If you have a stubborn stain on your retainer, do not attempt to remove it with hot water, as this may cause the plastic to warp. Cold temperatures may cause the plastic to harden and be more prone to breaking, so always aim to wash the retainer in lukewarm water.

Mouthwash

It is not advisable to soak invisible braces in mouthwash.

While it may seem practical and a great way to keep them smelling fresh, many types of mouthwash may actually stain the retainers, removing the discretion that has made this brace so famous. So, unless you want a smile with a blue tint, stick to lukewarm water for keeping the aligner clean.

Brushes

When choosing the correct brush to clean your retainers, it is pivotal to use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Harder brushes can cause damage to the surface of the aligner, causing it to fragment and feel rough.

Storage

When this brace is not in your mouth, always ensure that you store it in the case that was provided to you by our team. This will keep it dust free and will prevent it from being damaged by accident.