If you've chosen Invisalign therapy to straighten your teeth instead of traditional braces, it's important to take care of your aligners to make sure that they are still able to do their job. Improper care of these aligners could make them ineffective or cause them to increase the numbers of germs and bacterial strains in your mouth that are linked to tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious dental problems. You might even need to have your aligners replaced because of improper Invisalign care, and this can be expensive. By following these five smart tips, you can care for your aligners properly.

1. Clean Your Aligners Regularly

To keep the germs and bacteria in your mouth at a minimum, your aligners should be cleaned regularly. Cleaning your aligners can also remove the sugar and other food particles that can attract more of the germs and bacteria that erode tooth enamel and cause cavities to form. One of the best ways to clean the inside and outside of your aligners is by brushing them twice a day with your regular toothpaste and a soft toothbrush. Soaking your aligners in some cool water with cleaning crystals for few minutes daily in addition to brushing can help get them even cleaner. 

2. Store Your Aligners in Their Case

You should have received a case for your aligners when you started your Invisalign treatment, and you'll want to store your aligners in this case each time you remove them except for cleaning. Your aligners will be much more susceptible to damage and will get dirty easier if they aren't stored in this case. You'll also run the risk of losing your aligners if they aren't kept in your case. Storing your aligners in your case will be especially important when you travel.

3. Refrain from Eating While Wearing Your Aligners

One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners can be removed easily, and you'll definitely want to take them out when you're ready to eat. Eating with your aligners still in your mouth can be uncomfortable and damage the trays. Before you put your aligners back into your mouth after you've finished eating, you should rinse them thoroughly first.

4. Try to Prevent Stains

Certain foods and beverages can leave stains on your teeth, and these stains will be even more noticeable when you're wearing your aligners. Stains can also form on your aligners and make your teeth look less attractive. You should be especially careful if you consume coffee, wine, or turmeric and clean your teeth thoroughly after consuming these or other stain-inducing items.

5. Avoid Hot Liquids

You should avoid drinking hot coffee, tea, or other hot beverages when you're wearing your aligners. The heat can warp your aligners so that they don't fit your teeth properly anymore. You'll also want to avoid rinsing your aligners in hot water when you're cleaning them.

With the proper care of your aligners, your Invisalign treatment can be a greater success. Following these care tips can help you avoid certain problems that will stand in the way of getting the straight and beautiful teeth that you want.

For more information about Invisalign treatment, talk to your dentist.