One of the biggest perks of Invisalign clear aligners is that you can take them out when you eat, brush, and floss. But that convenience also comes with an important responsibility: You need to keep both your teeth and aligners clean throughout treatment.
Because your aligners fit snugly over your teeth, leftover food and plaque can become trapped against your teeth if you put your trays back in without brushing and flossing. Making flossing part of your daily Invisalign routine can help protect your smile while your teeth are moving into place.
Why Is Flossing Important During Invisalign Treatment?
Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. If you don’t floss regularly, bacteria can accumulate in these spaces and increase your risk of cavities and gum disease.
With Invisalign, keeping your teeth clean is particularly important because your aligners cover your teeth for much of the day. Any food particles or bacteria left behind can remain against your teeth while you’re wearing your trays.
The good news is that you don’t need a complicated new technique. You generally floss your teeth the same way you did before starting Invisalign.
Remove Your Aligners Before Flossing
Always take your aligners out before brushing or flossing. Once you’ve removed them, rinse them with water and set them somewhere clean and safe while you care for your teeth.
Never try to floss with your aligners in place. The trays can make it difficult to properly access the spaces between your teeth, preventing you from cleaning your smile effectively.
Use Traditional Floss or Another Interdental Cleaner
Traditional dental floss works well for cleaning between your teeth, but it’s not your only option. Depending on your preferences and dental needs, you may also use floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.
The most important thing is to clean between your teeth consistently. If your teeth are becoming more crowded or difficult to floss as they move during treatment, don’t be discouraged. Take your time and be gentle around your gums.
If you’re unsure which flossing tool is right for you, ask your dentist or dental hygienist for a recommendation.
Don’t Forget to Brush
Flossing is only part of the equation. After eating, brush your teeth thoroughly before putting your Invisalign aligners back in whenever possible.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean all tooth surfaces. Pay attention to the gumline, where plaque can accumulate.
If you’re away from home and can’t brush immediately after eating, rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water can be a helpful temporary step. Ideally, though, brush and floss before replacing your aligners.
Keep Your Aligners Clean, Too
Your teeth aren’t the only thing that needs attention. Your aligners should also be cleaned regularly.
Rinse your trays whenever you remove them and clean them according to your dentist’s recommendations and the aligner manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid exposing them to hot water, which can potentially distort the plastic.
Keeping your aligners clean helps prevent unpleasant odors and keeps your Invisalign routine more comfortable.
Make Flossing Part of Your Routine
Invisalign can make maintaining your oral hygiene convenient because your aligners are removable. Take advantage of that flexibility by making brushing and flossing a consistent part of your treatment routine.
If you experience bleeding, persistent gum irritation, or difficulty cleaning between your teeth, talk with your dentist. They can help you adjust your technique and keep your treatment progressing smoothly.
A few extra minutes of flossing each day can help protect the healthy smile you’re working toward.
About the Practice
Richland Dental provides comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages, with services focused on maintaining healthy and confident smiles. The practice offers Invisalign treatment for patients interested in straightening their teeth with removable clear aligners. The dental team provides personalized guidance throughout treatment, helping patients understand how to care for their teeth and aligners along the way.
Call us at (972) 812-9701 or schedule your appointment online.