Tips for Brushing and Flossing During Invisalign Therapy

Invisalign East Haven, CT

Invisalign® is one of the most popular ways to undergo teeth straightening treatment. However, with that being said, it is still crucial to maintain good oral hygiene throughout the process. Keep reading to find out what a general dentist has to say about brushing and flossing. 

A quick guide to oral hygiene during Invisalign® treatment

Outlined below are a few tips on brushing and flossing during Invisalign® treatment. This information comes directly from a general dentist who wants to reiterate the importance of oral hygiene.

1. Brush after every meal

Traditionally, general dentists recommend brushing twice a day; however, when it comes to Invisalign® treatment, it is better to brush after every meal. Because the teeth stay enclosed by the Invisalign® aligners, making sure that any left behind food or debris is cleaned off will go a long way in oral health. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush will ensure that overbrushing does not occur, thus keeping the enamel intact. 

2. Floss at least once a day

Flossing at least once a day is always important; however, when it comes to Invisalign® treatment, it is crucial to abide by this. Because the teeth are enclosed by the aligners for the majority of the day, ensuring that left behind food does not remain in between the teeth is important. 

3. Be gentle when flossing

During Invisalign® treatment, the teeth are constantly shifting. Of course, this shift is positive because it means the treatment is working. However, because of the constant shift, it is important to understand the sensitivity that is involved. With that being said, when flossing each day, it is necessary to be gentle. Flossing can be difficult especially if there are tight spaces involved. Gently flossing in between each tooth will ensure that the gums stay healthy; however, just remember to be careful when doing so. 

4. Use a fluoride-based toothpaste

Toothpaste that contains fluoride can be extremely beneficial to the teeth, especially when undergoing Invisalign® treatment. Because the teeth are enclosed by the aligners for most of the day, the teeth can become susceptible to natural bacterial growth, which can wear down the enamel. Using fluoride-based toothpaste a few times a week will ensure that the enamel stays strong and mineralized. 

Other oral hygiene tips during Invisalign® treatment

Aside from the brushing and flossing tips that are listed above, general dentists also recommend rinsing with mouthwash or saltwater a few times a week. Because the aligners enclose the teeth so much, bacteria can naturally grow. Rinsing can keep bacteria at bay while also ensuring good breath. 

Talk to a general dentist today

When undergoing Invisalign® treatment, it is advised to continue to follow good oral hygiene. These can go a long way in ensuring that oral health stays in good shape throughout the treatment process. Any additional questions or concerns about oral hygiene can be addressed by a general dentist. To find out more or to get scheduled for an appointment, reach out to our East Haven office today. 

Request an appointment here: https://havendentalcare1.com or call Haven Dental Care at (203) 800-9909 for an appointment in our East Haven office. 

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Invisalign in East Haven, CT.

Related Posts

Find A Dentist Near Me For Dental Checkups

"Find a dentist near me" is the typical search phrase when someone has a problem with oral health or realizes they need to establish a relationship with a dental provider. This is a natural first step, as it typically garners results that bring up practices within the searcher's proximity. However, knowing what to expect during…

Unlock Your Perfect Smile: Steps To Finding A Dentist Near Me

When a person needs to find dental care in their area, they usually start with searching, “find a dentist near me,” or something similar in a search engine. While this can provide a useful first glimpse into your options, there is much more to consider besides a dentist’s physical proximity. Good dental care depends on…

4 Reasons To Find A Dentist Near Me

When people look for a dentist they can trust, searching “find a dentist near me” might not immediately come to mind as a good way to look. After all, shouldn’t you search for someone who can do the procedure or service that you need? While it is important to consider what services a particular dentist…

Find A Dentist Near Me For Smile Restorations

When you damage your smile, restoring it should be at the top of your list of priorities. This will likely lead you to search "find a dentist near me" for smile restorations. However, it is important to note that there are different types of damage, and some dental professionals may be more suitable for your…