Invisalign completely revolutionized the field of orthodontics when they debuted their clear aligners in the late 1990s. Now, Invisalign is a household name! As a result, you may already know quite a bit about clear aligner treatment, including that there are no dietary restrictions and that the trays are virtually undetectable. But can they also help prevent decay? Keep reading to learn the answer to the question, “Can I get cavities with Invisalign?”
So, Can You Get Cavities with Invisalign?
In short, the answer is “yes.” Although the clear aligners completely cover your teeth, you must take them out to eat. Therefore, your teeth are still vulnerable to decay, especially if you don’t clean your teeth properly before putting your aligners back in. It’s also worth mentioning that drinking coffee, wine, and other beverages that aren’t water with your trays in can increase your chances of developing a cavity since the sugar can slip under your aligners. So, it’s important to diligently care for your teeth, even if you’re wearing your aligners for 22 hours a day.
What Happens If You Get a Cavity During Invisalign Treatment?
If you do develop a cavity during your Invisalign treatment, then you’ll need to get the appropriate restorative care right away, like a filling or dental crown. In some cases, this requires your teeth to be rescanned, which can delay your treatment. That’s why it’s of the utmost importance that you do your best to keep your teeth happy, healthy, and decay-free.
7 Ways to Keep Your Teeth Decay-Free with Clear Aligners
The good news is that cavities are largely preventable. Here are a few of the best ways to keep your teeth in pristine condition during Invisalign treatment:
- Get a dental checkup and cleaning every six months
- Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water
- Brush and floss your teeth after each meal
- Rinse your trays after you take them out and before you put them back in
- Stick to mostly well-balanced, healthy meals
- Avoid unhealthy dental habits, like smoking and biting your nails
- Clean your aligners each morning and evening with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush
While it is possible to get a cavity with Invisalign, it’s also important to remember that you can significantly reduce your chances of developing one with the right best practices in place. So, implement the above best practices throughout your treatment!
About the Practice
Our team at Simply Orthodontics is here to help you achieve a smile that is both healthy and gorgeous. That’s why we focus on educating patients on how to care for their teeth throughout orthodontic treatment. Plus, if you need tips for flossing properly with braces, are unsure what you should and shouldn’t eat to keep your teeth strong, or have any questions along the way, we’re here to help. If you want to learn more about how to keep your teeth decay-free with Invisalign, then don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment via our website or by phone at (508) 435-1200.