Wouldn’t it be cool to have a shield that protects your teeth from cavities? Unfortunately, no such thing exists, but you might think that if you wear Invisalign, your teeth are defended against plaque, bacteria, and stains. Sadly, this is not the case, and wearing clear aligners can sometimes make it even easier to get cavities because you can trap food and debris behind your them if you don’t properly care for your teeth.
Here’s what you should do to prevent cavities while wearing aligners, and what you should do if you think you see decay forming!
How To Prevent Cavities with Invisalign
The easiest way to prevent cavities from forming with or without aligners is to brush and floss regularly. But while you should brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day without aligners, with aligners brushing and flossing after each meal is an absolute must.
When you brush, be sure to do it for at least two minutes each time, and floss between each tooth in a “c” motion as you slide the dental floss up and down. Be sure to rinse well afterward so you are not leaving any debris behind on your teeth.
Caring for your aligners themselves is another important step in keeping your teeth cavity free. To do this, be sure to soak them in cleanser for the recommended duration and gently brush them with a soft-bristled brush and gentle toothpaste each time you remove them from your mouth.
If You Notice Cavities Forming
You may not always be able to tell you have a cavity forming, but if you do, contact your dentist immediately for an evaluation. Signs to look for are tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, brown spots, and any other unexplained changes to your teeth. If you do need a filling or a crown, you may require adjustments to your aligners as well, as they may no longer fit properly or comfortably over your teeth depending on the level of intervention.
Furthermore, be sure to attend your regular orthodontic and dental appointments. Your providers have a front row seat to your oral health and are your second line of defense in noticing any changes in your teeth and gums during your treatment.
In Conclusion
Remember, keeping a close eye on your oral health during treatment is essential to maintaining the well-being of your mouth, and to ensuring you achieve the smile of your dreams!
About Our Practice
Dr. Anil Patel and the team at Studio Dental of Chisholm Trail are skilled in providing top-quality care in an accessible format. At Studio Dental, we pride ourselves on helping patients understand their oral health options, so they can make educated decisions for themselves and their families.
Dr. Patel is honored to be a Fellow of the International Dental Implant Association (IDIA), a member of the American Dental association, and the Texas Dental Association. He has a keen interest in cosmetic dentistry and dental implantology.
To learn more about our practice or to schedule an appointment, please visit our website or call us at 817-799-7494.