Invisalign is a popular choice for patients who want straighter teeth without the hassle of metal brackets and wires, and for many good reasons. It’s discreet, comfortable, removable, and comes with virtually no dietary restrictions! However, many patients are surprised to learn that Invisalign doesn’t offer protection against cavities, and in fact, their risk is even higher than normal during treatment. Here’s what you need to know and how to keep your smile healthy from start to finish.
Yes, Cavities Can Still Form During Invisalign Treatment
Though it might sound surprising, your teeth are more vulnerable to cavities than ever before while wearing Invisalign. Because the aligners fit snugly over your teeth for 20 to 22 hours a day, anything left behind on your teeth, like plaque, bacteria, or sugar, gets trapped against the enamel for extended periods.
This creates an ideal environment for decay to develop, especially if you aren’t diligent about brushing and flossing before putting your trays back in. Sipping sugary drinks or snacking with your aligners in can also speed up the cavity-forming process.
Signs That You May Have a Cavity
Cavities aren’t always obvious in their early stages, but there are some signs worth watching for during your treatment:
- A white, brown, or dark spot appearing on a tooth
- Increased sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks
- Mild pain or discomfort when chewing or biting down
- A visible pit or hole in the tooth
- Persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth
- Your aligners feel like they no longer fit as smoothly as before
It’s possible that you may not notice any symptoms until your dentist spots a problem during a routine appointment. This is one of the many reasons it’s so important to keep up with your scheduled checkups and cleanings throughout your Invisalign treatment!
Tips for Preventing Cavities During Invisalign
The good news is that most cavities during Invisalign treatment are preventable with a few consistent habits. In addition to keeping up with all routine dental and orthodontic check-ins, keep these tips in mind:
- Brush and floss thoroughly before placing your aligners back in your mouth
- Avoid eating or drinking anything besides water while wearing your trays
- Rinse your mouth with water after meals if you can’t brush right away
- Limit sugary and starchy snacks when possible
- Clean your aligners daily to prevent bacteria buildup
If you suspect decay is developing, don’t try to wait it out until your next scheduled appointment. A cavity doesn’t have to derail your Invisalign journey, as long as it’s caught and treated quickly!
About the Practice
At Worcester Dental Arts, our team is dedicated to helping patients throughout Worcester with all their dental needs. We offer a wide range of treatments, including Invisalign clear aligners for patients who’d like to straighten their smiles without metal braces. If you have any questions or you’re ready to schedule an appointment for yourself or a family member, feel free to call or reach out online for more information. Telephone: (508) 793-2114.
