You've aligned your teeth with Invisalign, and now you're enjoying your beautiful smile! The important thing is to protect your investment and learn how to care for your teeth and keep them from shifting over time. The best way to do this is with retainers.
Invisalign and Retainers
Whenever you complete orthodontic treatment, whether it's with traditional braces or with Invisalign, you will need to wear retainers. This is because teeth tend to shift back into their original position without retainers, which would mean that the treatment you just completed was all for naught.
After your teeth are set, you will be able to wear your retainers at night while you sleep; however, they will need to be worn every night from now on to maintain your newly aligned smile.
Plaque and bacteria can build up on your retainers and contribute to issues like gums disease or tooth decay, so you should also consistently clean your retainer by brushing it with a mild toothpaste and rinsing it with water. You can soak your retainer during the day when it's not in use in an antibacterial mouth rinse or mild cleaner like you would use for dentures.
Regular Dental Checkups
Consistent visits with your dentist every six months are also important for maintaining your healthy, beautiful smile. Your dentist will ensure that your teeth and roots are healthy during your routine examinations, and they may want to take a look at your retainer to ensure proper fit, especially if you are wearing it consistently over time.
Excellent Home Care
Perfectly aligned teeth are much easier to keep clean. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once on a daily basis will help keep your teeth healthy and your newly aligned smile bright. Your hygienist can give you tips on proper brushing techniques so you can capitalize on your home care routine.
Your team at Lakeforest Dental Associates is here to help you make the most of your investment in Invisalign in Gaithersburg. Give us a call with any questions you might have about your aftercare.
