Invisalign offers many benefits, including its discreet appearance and convenient treatment method. However, an important question often arises: Since the aligners place a protective barrier around the teeth, is it still possible to get cavities during Invisalign treatment? The short answer is yes. Cavities can form at any time, whether you are undergoing orthodontic treatment or not. In this blog post, you can learn how they may happen and what you can do to protect your oral health.
How Do Cavities Form During Invisalign?
Cavities form due to a buildup of plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that continually forms on your teeth. When you consume foods and beverages that contain sugars and starches, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. This can result in the decay of tooth structure over time. Since you must remove your Invisalign aligners when you eat, they do not protect you from this process.
Moreover, without proper oral hygiene, Invisalign might even slightly increase your risk of cavities. That is because they fit snugly around the teeth and may trap harmful substances against your enamel.
Preventing Cavities During Invisalign
Fortunately, preventing cavities during Invisalign is pretty easy! If you have a strong focus on oral hygiene, it is unlikely that you will develop any spots of decay. Here are some key steps to keep your teeth healthy:
- Brush your teeth after every meal to remove food particles and plaque. Using fluoride toothpaste is essential, as fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and prevents decay.
- Floss regularly to eliminate plaque and food particles from between your teeth and under the gumline, which are areas where your toothbrush cannot reach.
- Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to provide added protection against plaque buildup.
- Clean your Invisalign aligners regularly. Rinse them each time you remove them to wash away saliva and plaque. Every night before bed, clean them with mild soap and a soft brush. You can also soak them with Invisalign cleaning crystals.
Treating Cavities That Develop During Invisalign
If you notice a small pit in one of your teeth, or you experience increased sensitivity, you might have a cavity. While that is not a major disaster, it does mean you should receive prompt treatment. If the cavity is small enough to be treated with a filling, your Invisalign aligners should still fit comfortably.
If major decay is present, you might need more extensive restorative care, such as a root canal therapy and/or a crown. This may necessitate adjustments in your Invisalign treatment plan.
Invisalign does not protect you from cavities, but if you keep a careful eye on your oral hygiene, you should not have to worry about decay during your treatment.
Meet the Practice
At Comprehensive Dental Associates of Central Connecticut, our team is proud to offer Invisalign clear aligners. We also provide preventive care, cavity treatments, and more. If you have questions about straightening your teeth or reducing your risk of decay, we would be happy to speak with you. Contact our East Hartford office at 860-288-5786.