Invisalign clear aligners place a barrier over all the exposed surfaces of your teeth. Some people reason that because of that, Invisalign will prevent the development of tooth decay. But is that true? Can you still get cavities during Invisalign treatment? The answer is yes, you can. This blog post explains how spots of decay can develop and how you can protect your precious smile.
How Cavities Develop
Cavities develop when starches and sugars interact with bacteria in your mouth. They form a film on the teeth called plaque, which is acidic. The acid in the plaque can eventually weaken the tooth enamel and cause small pits (cavities) to form.
There are a few reasons why you should not expect Invisalign aligners to prevent the formation of cavities:
- You should remove your aligners when you eat. Therefore, your teeth will still be exposed to the food particles that interact with bacteria to create plaque.
- Poor habits can increase the risk of cavities. Without proper oral hygiene, Invisalign can trap food particles against your teeth. The aligners can also prevent saliva from reaching your enamel and rinsing away those unwanted bits of food. As a result, your chances of developing tooth decay may actually be greater than they were before you started Invisalign treatment.
How to Prevent Cavities During Invisalign Treatment
Preventing cavities during Invisalign is not difficult or complicated. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Brush and floss after each meal. Keep a small oral hygiene kit with you so you can clean your mouth after every meal and snack. It is best to use a soft brush and fluoridated toothpaste.
- Regularly rinse your aligners. You should rinse your Invisalign thoroughly before you place it in your mouth.
- Soak your aligners each night. Soaking your aligners in a cleansing solution can help them to stay as fresh and clean as possible.
- Make wise food choices. Try to minimize your intake of sugary and starchy foods and beverages. Sodas, sticky candies, and sports beverages can be particularly damaging.
- Attend regular dental appointments. In addition to attending your Invisalign checkups, you should also visit your dentist for routine cleanings and exams twice a year.
What If You Develop a Cavity?
If, despite your best efforts, you develop a cavity while using Invisalign, simply visit your dentist. Most cavities are easy to treat with a small tooth-colored filling. The filling can be shaped so it will have little to no effect on how your Invisalign aligners fit.
Invisalign can benefit your oral health in numerous ways, but it will not protect you from cavities! Thorough oral hygiene is the best way to prevent decay both during and after Invisalign treatment.
Meet the Practice
The talented team of professionals in our practice is proud to offer Invisalign clear aligners among our many services. We also provide comprehensive preventive and restorative care to help patients avoid and treat dental decay. If you have questions about how we may be able to help you enjoy excellent oral health, contact our Westborough office at 508-217-7265.