Invisalign represents a breakthrough in orthodontics. Using clear plastic trays to move misaligned teeth into proper position, Invisalign is an excellent alternative for those who need or desire orthodontic correction but do not wish to undergo the discomfort and inconvenience of traditional metal braces.
Like traditional braces, though, Invisalign aligner trays require special care for the best results. One set of precautions your dentist might recommend regards beverages.
Many Invisalign dentists recommend that you only drink water while wearing your Invisalign designer trays. There are several reasons for this, including:
- Hot beverages can warp the shape of the plastic trays
- Sugar from beverages can become trapped inside the trays, promoting tooth decay
- Coloration from beverages like tea, coffee and wine can discolor the trays
Tea and coffee could potentially contribute to all three of these potential problems. If you drink a great deal of tea or coffee, you can remove the trays while you indulge, but this could result in your having the aligners off your teeth enough to affect the final results of your treatment. Invisalign aligners must be worn a minimum of twenty-two hours every day in order to provide sufficient correction to your bite.
You could also cut down on your consumption of beverages that could harm or stain your trays. Some Invisalign patients have reported that staining to the trays is minimal during the two weeks that each set of trays is worn. If you have any concerns about consuming tea and coffee while using Invisalign aligners, though, you should consult with your dentist.
Another way to prevent staining to your teeth and to keep sugars from being trapped beneath the trays is to rinse them thoroughly after you have consumed tea or coffee. Again, you must be sure that the aligners remain in your mouth for at least twenty-two hours each day.
To find out more about how to care for Invisalign aligner trays, please contact a dentist with a specialization in Invisalign in Fort Worth.
