Invisalign® and Cavities: Why Patients Should That Oral Hygiene Seriously

Dr. Kellyn Hodges has helped countless patients in and around the greater Philadelphia area achieve smiles that are straight and healthy thanks to Invisalign®. Invisalign® is an alternative to traditional orthodontic treatment (metal braces) that helps improve the overall straightness of the teeth, Rather than using brackets and wires, Invisalign® achieves results by using clear plastic aligner trays. New trays are worn every two weeks to help with the gradual realignment of the smile.

Patients wear these custom aligner trays at all times save for when they are eating, drinking, and cleaning their teeth. This means that patients undergoing Invisalign® can still eat their favorite foods and experience few interruptions to their daily life as part of their treatment process.

Is it possible to get cavities while using Invisalign®?

Yes.

Cavities are a possibility while undergoing Invisalign® treatment. That's why it's so important for patients to clean their teeth as instructed by their orthodontist.

What happens if I develop a cavity during Invisalign® treatment?

If you develop cavities while you undergo Invisalign® treatment, a dentist will have to place a filling or some form of dental restoration in order to address the issue.

Some patients have noticed soreness and discomfort when they wear their Invisalign® trays after having a filling placed. The fit of the Invisalign® tray may feel off as well if a patient has a larger restoration of some kind placed, such as an inlay, onlay, or crown.

Patients Should Take Their Oral Hygiene Seriously

Given how tooth decay can affect your overall dental wellness, it's important that Invisalign® patients take their oral hygiene seriously throughout treatment. This will ensure good overall dental health and as few issues during the Invisalign® process as possible.

Keeping cavities away while undergoing Invisalign® is as easy as the three tips below.

Brushing and Flossing Should Not Be Taken for Granted

Brushing and flossing is always important, and it's especially so when you undergo Invisalign® treatment. Patients should brush and floss after every meal when possible, which removes food particles and prevents the formation of even minor cavities. Since there are no brackets and wires involved with Invisalign®, regular oral hygiene such as this pose no difficulties or challenges.

Brush and Clean Your Invisalign® Aligners as Well

In addition to cleaning your teeth, it's important that patients clean their Invisalign® trays as well. Brushing the Invisalign® trays and soaking them with cleaners as recommended will help keep oral bacteria and food particles off of your Invisalign® trays, ensure that cavities will not form.

Attend All Followup Visits with Your Dentist and Orthodontist

Throughout Invisalign® treatment, you should attend all regular dental checkups and followups with your orthodontist. By having professional monitoring of your dental health and wellness, issues with cavities can be prevented, avoided, and addressed.

Learn More About Invisalign® to Straighten Your Teeth

If you would like to learn more about Invisalign® and how it can help you have a smile that's as healthy as it can be, we encourage you to contact our orthodontic care specialists today. Dr. Hodges and the entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best dental health and wellness possible.