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How to clean and store invisalign braces

A new type of dental aligner known as the invisalign braces has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. They are rapidly replacing the unsightly traditional metal dental braces. These braces are made from a clear polyurethane resin because of which they are transparent and look much tidier than their metallic counterparts. They are known to align the teeth over a period of several months that can extend to almost a year. These braces needs to be removed while eating and drinking beverages other than water. In addition, you must clean the aligners on a daily basis to avoid bacterial growth. However, most of the users are concerned about the price of the invisalign cleaning system, as the kit provided by the company can be quite expensive. There are some other effective solutions for cleaning invisalign braces, that too without emptying your wallet. Here is a description of some useful tips that can help you in cleaning and storing invisalign braces.

Complexity level

Basic

Time required

10-15 minutes

Resources required

  1. Cup
  2. Denture tablets
  3. Soft bristled toothbrush
  4. Toothpaste
  5. Closed container

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the braces

First, take a cup full with water and add one tablet of denture cleaner into it. One such cleaner is Efferdent. Now, soak the invisalign braces into the cup for 5 to 10 minutes. These tablets remove the bacteria from the braces. You need to repeat this practice, both in the morning and in the evening. When you are done with soaking, rinse the braces with cool water.

Step 2: Wash the liners with a toothbrush

Take the soft bristled toothbrush and place a small dollop of toothpaste on it. With this toothbrush, wash both the inside and outside of the invisalign braces thoroughly. This should be done once in a day. When you are finished with it, rinse the braces under cool water.

Step 3: Brush your teeth properly

Once you have removed the braces, you also need to brush your teeth in order to make sure that no food particles are stuck in your mouth. These food particles are the hot spots for bacterial growth, which will be transferred to the liners. Therefore, it is very important that you brush your teeth properly when placing the invisalign braces back into the mouth.

Step 4: Storing the braces when not in use

You have to remove the braces when you are eating or drinking beverages. However, do not just put them anywhere, store the invisalign braces in a cup full of water. You can also place the braces in a closed container of water to soak. Rinse them properly before placing back into the mouth. Soaking of the braces is recommended because if they are not soaked then the saliva found on the braces will dry because of which discoloration of braces may take place.

Frequently asked questions

Q. Can I use baking soda for cleaning my braces?

A. Yes, this is why baking soda is often referred to as all around cleaning substance. In fact, use of baking soda along with your toothpaste will help you to achieve an even clearer result. Make a paste of baking soda and toothpaste, apply this mixture on the braces, and then wash the braces using a toothbrush. Once you are done with rubbing, rinse them in cold water. You can even add baking soda in the water in which you soak your braces.

Quick tips

1. If you do not have denture tablets, then you can even use baking soda in its place.

2. It is always recommended to remove the braces while eating because the food particles may be stuck into your braces, which acts as an invitation to bacteria.

Things to watch out for

If you notice some sort of itching or damage to the braces or any other discomfort such as blisters on your gums, then consult your dentist immediately. In that case, your dentist may recommend you to use the usual and more expensive official invisalign cleaning kit.

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