If you’re unhappy with your smile due to crooked, spaced-out, or otherwise misaligned teeth, you’ll be happy to know you don’t have to endure years of “metal mouth” to straighten your smile! Thanks to Invisalign’s clear aligners and state-of-the-art dental technology, you can achieve your smile goals discreetly. While the virtually undetectable trays are one of the reasons this teeth-straightening treatment is a household name, many patients wonder if it’s possible to get cavities with Invisalign. Read on for the answer!
So, Is It Possible to Get Cavities with Invisalign?
In short, the answer is yes. There are a few reasons for this. To start, you can’t eat or drink anything (with the exception of water) with your trays in. As a result, your teeth are exposed to the same food particles and debris as they were before your orthodontic treatment. Next, neglecting to care for your aligners can trap plaque and bacteria against your teeth, actually increasing your chances of developing tooth decay. So, while your aligners form a protective shield over your teeth, they won’t stop cavities from developing.
How to Prevent Cavities During Invisalign Treatment
The good news is that cavities are largely preventable with a solid oral hygiene routine in place. With this in mind, make sure to follow the below best practices throughout your Invisalign treatment:
- Brush for two full minutes and floss after each meal.
- Always remove your aligners during mealtimes.
- Rinse your trays when taking them out of your mouth and before putting them back in.
- Don’t eat with your aligners in.
- Visit your dentist biannually for a checkup and cleaning.
- Limit your consumption of sugary foods and beverages, like soda and candy.
- Drink plenty of water.
What to Do If You Develop a Cavity
If you begin to experience any abnormal symptoms, like pain when biting down or gum inflammation, don’t hesitate to notify your dentist. After a thorough exam, they will be able to determine the root of the problem and intervene swiftly. Remember, the sooner you seek treatment, the sooner you can get back on track with your Invisalign timeline. So, don’t put off scheduling an appointment!
About the Author
A board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Bradley Buchwald earned his dental doctorate from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine. After receiving countless awards for his outstanding achievement, he went on to complete a three-year orthodontic residency at the prestigious Texas A&M University Baylor College of Dentistry. Today, he enjoys using his skill, education, and training to create personalized treatment plans that deliver beautiful results! If you’d like to learn more about preventing cavities or want to schedule your initial consultation to discuss Invisalign, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 972-377-5940.