Are you considering pursuing your dream smile with Invisalign? Maybe you’ve already started the teeth-straightening process. Either way, you’ve probably heard all of the perks that come with this discreet orthodontic treatment – from the lack of dietary restrictions to the shorter average treatment timeline. But can you still get cavities with Invisalign? If this is something you’ve been wondering, read on to learn the answer!
So, Can You Get Cavities with Invisalign?
You can! This might surprise you since Invisalign clear aligners cover your teeth. However, since they are removed before eating or drinking anything other than water, your teeth are still exposed to cavity-causing foods, like ice cream. That’s why it’s so important to incorporate healthy habits into your routine before, during, and after your orthodontic treatment.
7 Ways to Protect Your Smile From Decay
Fortunately, tooth decay is largely preventable with the right best practices in place, like:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste to brush twice a day
- Flossing each morning or evening
- Rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash
- Limiting your intake of added sugar
- Scheduling a dental checkup and cleaning twice a year
- Wearing a mouthguard or nightguard to protect your teeth
- Not smoking or using your teeth as tools to open things
Remember, Taking Care of Your Trays Is Important Too!
In addition to taking great care of your smile, you need to take great care of your trays! Not only will this help prevent stubborn stains from surfacing, but it will also help prevent common oral health problems, like cavities. Fortunately, you don’t need anything special to clean your aligners – just a solid, consistent routine.
The first habit you should adopt is using clean, cool water to rinse your trays every time you remove them. Then, before you put them back on, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, mild dishwashing liquid to remove debris, like saliva, from the surface. Last, but certainly not least, soak your aligners in a cleaning solution each day for 15 minutes or so.
About the Practice
After graduating from the University of Texas at Arlington, Dr. Barge attended the Texas A&M College of Dentistry, which is where she earned her dental doctorate. Since then, she has completed countless hours of continuing education (she’s even completed the Core Curriculum for complex restorative and aesthetic cases at the Las Vegas Institute!). Plus, she is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. If you would like to schedule a routine checkup or Invisalign consultation with her, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (972) 539-3800.