When Should I Take Out Invisalign Clear Aligners?

Malocclusion, also known as misaligned teeth, can happen for many reasons and presents in various ways. Overbite, underbite, crowded teeth, open bite, and crossbite are examples of this condition. It can be caused by: 

• Frequent pacifier use 
• Prolonged bottle feeding 
• Thumbsucking 
• Impacted teeth 
• Injury 
• Mouth tumors 
• Cleft palate 

Often malocclusions are genetic and can be passed down to children.

Invisalign is a popular version of clear aligners. Like any dental appliance, the results are based on how well you follow your dentist’s instructions. That includes when to take them out. 

In this article, let’s examine how Invisalign works, its advantages over similar dental appliances, and how to care for your aligners.

If you live in Mamaroneck, New York, or Stamford, Connecticut, and have misaligned teeth, Dr. Gennadiy Kravets and our dental team at All Bright Dental can help you achieve a better smile.

How Invisalign works

Invisalign aligners straighten teeth gradually. They are custom-made to treat your specific dental problems. 

The aligners are made from a flexible thermoplastic material called SmartTrack and are almost invisible when you wear them. They work most effectively if you wear them for 20-22 hours every day, and you can expect to switch to new aligners every two weeks. 

In short, you should only take out your Invisalign aligners to eat or drink and to brush and floss. Taking them out occasionally for a quick photo or special event is okay, but the more you wear them, the faster the treatment process. 

Advantages of Invisalign

The obvious advantage is they are not as visible as braces, retainers, or other devices used to align teeth. Invisalign requires fewer dental visits, treatment is often faster than other options, and they cause less discomfort. 

Invisalign is also easier to care for. In comparison, the wires of metal braces can snap. But with Invisalign, just handle them gently, and you’ll have no issues. In the next section, we explain how to care for your aligners. 

How to care for your aligners

While you will be keeping them in your mouth most of the day, you will need to remove them to eat and drink to avoid getting food particles trapped inside. You’ll also remove them to brush and floss and clean them. Clean them at the same time as you brush by rinsing them in lukewarm water using a soft-bristle toothbrush or retainer brush. Also, be sure to check them for any traces of tartar or plaque buildup. Once clean, place them back in your mouth.

Don’t soak them in mouthwash because it can cause staining. Instead, soak them in the Invisalign-approved cleaning solution. 

Protecting your aligners is just as essential as protecting your teeth. Follow our suggestion, and you’ll have a straighter and healthier smile that you’ll love to show off in no time. Ready to learn more about Invisalign? Make an appointment with Dr. Kravets and our team at All Bright Dental today.