Invisalign is a modern orthodontic solution that can straighten a patient’s teeth without the conspicuous wires and brackets and troublesome dietary restrictions that come with traditional metal braces. Though many patients report that Invisalign is an easy and comfortable treatment, keeping one’s teeth shifting properly and preventing oral infections while wearing clear aligners still requires a significant amount of discipline. Since it’s important to clean your teeth thoroughly before wearing your aligners, here’s a guide to proper flossing techniques for Invisalign patients.
Why Must I Floss Before Wearing My Invisalign Clear Aligners?
Invisalign clear aligners are designed to fit snugly over your teeth, and any food trapped beneath them can be protected from your mouth’s natural cleaning process. This allows harmful oral bacteria that cause tooth decay, gum disease, and dental stains to multiply rapidly, resulting in nasty oral infections that can delay your treatment and diminish its results. By always brushing and flossing before putting your aligners back in, you can keep your teeth healthy and beautiful as they straighten out.
How Should I Floss with Invisalign?
After you have removed your aligners and brushed your teeth, cut an eighteen- to twenty-four-inch strip of dental floss. Hold a small section of it taut between your hands and slide it between a pair of teeth. Work the floss up and down and from side to side on the edges of the teeth while being careful not to press too hard against the gums. Slide the floss from between the teeth, move to a clean section of it, and repeat this process for the next pair until your whole smile has been cleaned.
How Else Can I Prevent Oral Infections While Wearing Invisalign?
Another great way to keep your teeth healthy during Invisalign treatment is to avoid excessive consumption of sugary and starchy foods and drinks. The residue left by sugary items such as candy and soda provides fuel for harmful oral bacteria. Similarly, the starch found in foods like white bread, potato chips, and French fries decays into simpler sugars that these bacteria can easily metabolize. By limiting your consumption of these items, you can deprive these germs of the materials they need to cause oral infections.
Invisalign can be an excellent and visually pleasing way to straighten your smile. By taking proper care of your teeth during treatment, you can secure the best possible results from it.
About the Author
Dr. Shahram Modarres earned his dental degree at the New York University School of Dentistry and has completed extensive continuing education to stay abreast of the latest advancements in his field. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association, the Maryland State Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Rockville offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign services. To learn more about caring for your teeth with Invisalign, contact his office online or dial (301) 816-9400.