One of the most common oral health issues is cavities. In fact, most people will have had one in their lives! However, many wonder if they can still get this problem if they are wearing Invisalign clear aligners. These trays cover your teeth, so it seems like bacteria will be thwarted and not cause trouble. This isn’t the case, as you can still get tooth decay, so it’s important to protect your smile during your teeth straightening journey. Continue reading to learn how it can happen and how you can protect your smile.
How Can I Get Cavities with Invisalign?
Bacteria in your mouth cause cavities when they eat sugar and starch particles that are stuck on your teeth after meals. They produce acid that dissolves your enamel, leading to tooth decay. While Invisalign does cover your smile, if plaque gets stuck between your clear aligners and teeth, you can develop a cavity. It’s important to ensure you’re cleaning your smile after every meal to get rid of bacteria.
Ways to Prevent Cavities While Wearing Invisalign
In order to prevent this issue, there are simple tips you can follow. Incorporating them into your routine will help you build them as habits, so you can continue to be set up for success! Here is what you can do:
- Clean your clear aligners by brushing them with a soft-bristle toothbrush and clear, gentle soap every time you take them out or at least once a day.
- Brush and floss your teeth after you eat.
- Limit your sugar intake and drink only water when you have your Invisalign trays in.
- Have routine visits to your dentist so they can check for cavities and give you preventive care.
What Should I Do If I Get a Cavity During My Invisalign Treatment?
If you do find yourself with this oral health issue, then don’t feel like it will throw a wrench in your Invisalign treatment plan. Visit your dentist if you notice you have increased tooth sensitivity or a visible dark spot, so they can solve the issue. In many cases, you may need a simple filling that won’t affect the fit of your clear aligners! While you aren’t invincible to cavities, be sure to take the steps you need to prevent them and have enjoy smooth sailing while straightening your smile.
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Dental Excellence, you benefit from a husband-and-wife dentist duo who are dedicated to helping you get a grin you love. With the help of Invisalign, they can correct a wide variety of misalignments while fitting easily into your lifestyle. Additionally, we can help ensure that your grin stays free of oral health issues with the help of routine checkups. If you want to straighten your teeth or learn more about how you can prevent cavities, schedule an appointment or call us at (904) 895-4536.