Invisalign® is one of the most popular ways to undergo teeth straightening treatment. New advancements have also allowed the treatment to be used for other abnormalities and imperfections too.
Of course, Invisalign® is known to be an easier way to undergo treatment. However, with that being said, it is still crucial to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the process. Keep reading to find out what a general dentist has to say about brushing and flossing.
Outlined below are a few tips on brushing and flossing during Invisalign® treatment. This information comes directly from a general dentist who wants to reiterate the importance of oral hygiene.
Traditionally, general dentists recommend brushing twice a day; however, when it comes to Invisalign® treatment, it is better to brush after every meal. Because the teeth stay enclosed by the Invisalign® aligners, making sure that any left behind food or debris is cleaned off will go a long way in oral health. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush will ensure that overbrushing does not occur, thus keeping the enamel intact.
Flossing at least once a day is always important; however, when it comes to Invisalign® treatment, it is crucial to abide by this. Because the teeth are enclosed by the aligners for the majority of the day, ensuring that left behind food does not remain in between the teeth is important.
During Invisalign® treatment, the teeth are constantly shifting. Of course, this shift is positive because it means the treatment is working. However, because of the constant shift, it is important to understand the sensitivity that is involved. With that being said, when flossing each day, it is necessary to be gentle. Flossing can be difficult especially if there are tight spaces involved. Gently flossing in between each tooth will ensure that the gums stay healthy; however, just remember to be careful when doing so.
Toothpaste that contains fluoride can be extremely beneficial to the teeth, especially when undergoing Invisalign® treatment. Because the teeth are enclosed by the aligners for most of the day, the teeth can become susceptible to natural bacterial growth, which can wear down the enamel. Using fluoride-based toothpaste a few times a week will ensure that the enamel stays strong and mineralized.
Aside from the brushing and flossing tips that are listed above, general dentists also recommend rinsing with mouthwash or saltwater a few times a week. Because the aligners enclose the teeth so much, bacteria can naturally grow. Rinsing can keep bacteria at bay while also ensuring good breath.
When undergoing Invisalign® treatment, it is advised to follow the oral hygiene tips above. These can go a long way in ensuring that oral health stays in good shape throughout the treatment process. Any additional questions or concerns about oral hygiene can be addressed by a general dentist. To find out more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.gatewaydental.org or call Gateway Dental Dr. William Swann DDS at (301) 485-7492 for an appointment in our Bowie office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in Bowie, MD.
Invisalign® treatment can be used to gradually align your teeth through plastic trays that your dentist changes every two weeks. As the teeth move, you will not need to wear the plastic trays anymore, and the results are clear, natural-looking teeth with healthy gums and fresh breath. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look…
Invisalign® is a modern way to straighten crooked teeth, and a lot of people are considering it! However, it is important to remember that not everyone is a good candidate for every dental treatment that exists. This applies to Invisalign as well. Thankfully, we can help!Are you wondering if you’re a candidate for Invisalign? Most…
Metal braces have long been the expected option for correcting misaligned teeth, but the introduction of Invisalign® treatments has many dental patients rethinking the choice. There are many reasons to choose a clear aligner system over metal wires and brackets to achieve a uniform smile and straighter teeth, but the decision is ultimately up to…
You may have heard of Invisalign before. It is a popular, alternate way to correct your smile. It is a technology that uses clear plastic aligners that you must wear to realign your teeth. The plastic is transparent, flexible, and not noticeable in your mouth. It can be used to fix various dental problems, including overcrowded…
Dental crowns can treat many different concerns. They can repair damaged teeth, attach to dental implants for teeth replacement, and more. Two of the main types of dental crowns are metal and porcelain crowns. Both are effective solutions, but one may be preferable to another depending on the intended purpose.Your dentist should help you decide…
Endodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with the tissue inside teeth, also known as the dental pulp. Endodontic treatment is used to treat dental infections, tooth decay, and tooth damage. Patients need to pay extra attention and care after undergoing an endodontic procedure. The steps taken during the recovery period are important because…