19th March 2024

Invisalign Clear Braces Do’s and Don’ts

Invisalign braces are a cutting-edge orthodontic treatment, offering clear removable trays as an alternative to the traditional fixed wire and bracket design. Invisalign are discreet, removable, and crafted to fit your mouth, but they need looking after.

Here are some essential ‘dos and don’ts’ to make sure you get the most from your Invisalign braces.

Do’s of Invisalign Clear Braces

Do wear your braces 20-22 hours a day

Like all braces, Invisalign trays work by applying consistent pressure to your teeth. Invisalign are designed to be removable, but to be effective they need to work for 20-22 hours a day. The closer you can get to 22 hours, the better.

Do keep your Invisalign Clear Braces in their Invisalign case

The Invisalign case is shaped to house and protect your aligners, so if you remove them, don’t just put them on the side where they might get dirty or lost, or maybe even seized by an excited pet. Use the case every time as part of a consistent routine.

Do quit smoking

There are dozens of reasons to quit smoking, including the impact it has on your aligners and/or the effectiveness of your treatment. If you forget to remove them when smoking your Invisalign trays will quickly become discoloured, but if you remove them throughout the day to have a smoke you might not meet the 20-22 hour wearing requirement. Why not take advantage of the moment and quit smoking today?

Do soak your Invisalign trays each day

Even the healthiest mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, so remember to soak your trays in Invisalign crystals or a denture cleaner. After they’ve finished soaking, clean them with a soft, dedicated toothbrush to remove any lingering debris and rinse them again before putting them back in.

Don’ts of Invisalign Clear Braces

Don’t expose your aligners to heat

Excessive heat can warp your Invisalign trays, so stick to lukewarm water when washing them. Avoid leaving them on radiators or other hot surfaces for the same reason. Hot drinks can also warp your aligners, negatively impacting your trays’ effectiveness.

Don’t treat your Invisalign trays harshly

If you use abrasive or coloured cleaning products, you are likely to scratch or discolour the aligners, making them more noticeable when you wear them. We advise using a clear, gentle cleanser, and a dedicated, soft toothbrush.

Don’t forget to brush your teeth after every meal or snack

Fragments of food that remain between the aligners and your teeth will lead to rapid tooth decay. Always remove the aligners when eating or drinking, and brush your teeth before putting them back in.

Don’t eat or drink without removing your aligners

Invisalign clear braces can become warped or damaged by the mechanics of chewing, and eating and drinking with aligners will discolour the trays. We recommend developing a fixed routine that allows for proper care of your Invisalign braces.