When it comes to using clear or invisible aligners, you will want to make the most out of the treatment.
And of course, one of the main reasons that you are likely to have chosen these aligners is because they are invisible or clear. But one of the challenges that many people face concerning wearing invisible aligners is how to keep them clear and how to prevent certain food debris from becoming stuck to them.
At Chelsea and Fulham, we know all there is to know about clear and invisible aligners and as a provider of Invisalign in Chelsea, we know how to help you keep these aligners looking their clearest for the entire duration of treatment.
With that in mind, you may have heard of cleaning crystals in recent weeks relating to this brand of aligners. Here, our team will aim to answer common FAQs about cleaning crystals and Invisalign in Chelsea, so you can see if they are the right choice for you.
How long do you soak the aligner for?
When using cleaning crystals, you should aim to soak the aligner(s) for around 15 minutes.
Aim to place the aligners in the lukewarm water before adding the crystals, as this will help to loosen any debris.
Never use hot or boiling water when using crystals, as this can cause the aligners to warp out of shape.
How often per day should I use the crystals?
When cleaning Invisalign in Chelsea, aim to use your crystals twice per day.
This will help to keep them clean and will reduce the chances of food becoming stuck to them.
Using them at this frequency will also reduce plaque formation on the aligners, which will then equate to better long-term oral health.
What are they made from?
It can be concerning, especially with dentistry, to start using a new product, even if it is used for cleaning.
Not to worry! Cleaning crystals are made from sodium sulfate, sodium carbonate and sodium lauryl sulfate. These are perfectly safe ingredients when used in dentistry and are the primary ingredients in many different kinds of toothpaste and mouthwashes.
Can they help soften stuck-on food?
If you have a piece of stubborn food stuck to your aligners, you may wish to soak them for around 15-20 minutes.
However, if the food still doesn’t budge, you may want to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to help remove the stuck-on debris. Never use hot water to remove stuck-on debris or even mouthwash, as these can damage the aligners.
Do they reduce the chances of tooth decay and gum disease?
Yes; as the cleaning crystals are able to remove plaque and debris from the entire aligner, they can reduce the chances of you developing tooth decay and gum disease.
This is due to the aligners having nothing to press against your gums or teeth. While you may think you have removed all offending debris or plaque, microscopic elements of these may remain on the aligners and cause issues with your overall oral health in the long term.
