Invisalign Do’s & Don’ts—A Short Field Guide
February 16, 2025
Life only seems to become more complicated as time goes on. Thankfully, Invisalign makes straightening your teeth relatively simple, and keeping just 3 do’s and don’ts in mind will ensure you have a nice, seamless journey toward your fresh, new smile.
DON’T: Put Your Trays Just Anywhere
No one likes losing an Invisalign tray, and the primary reason this happens is that people take them out and set them somewhere random. This makes it easy to forget your aligner or have it accidentally thrown away!
DO: Use Your Carrying Case
When you start Invisalign, you’ll be given a dedicated case for your aligners. In short, your aligners should only go in your mouth or the case. This will drastically reduce your chances of misplacing them!
DON’T: Forget to Clean Your Trays
Just like your teeth, your trays need to be cleaned at least twice a day. This prevents food particles and bacteria from accumulating on them, which can lead to bad breath, discoloration, and even an increased risk of cavities.
DO: Brush & Rinse Your Invisalign
Essentially, whenever you brush your teeth, you should also give Invisalign a good scrub. Make sure you only use a soft-bristled brush and colorless hand soap—regular toothpaste can actually scratch the trays.
DON’T: Keep Your Trays in When Eating or Drinking
A quick bite of salad or sip of coffee with your trays still in isn’t a big deal, right? While one meal or beverage won’t throw off your treatment, regularly eating or drinking with your trays in can weaken them, cause warping, create tooth stains, and trap food against your teeth.
DO: Take Your Trays Out (Except for Water)
Unless you’re drinking unflavored water, your trays need to come out (and go into their case!). You should also give them a quick rinse before putting them back in. This will not only keep them clean, but ensure they remain clear and discreet.
BONUS DO: Keep Up with Progress Checks
Your dentist will ask you to come in every six to eight weeks to make sure your teeth are moving according to plan, and attending these is definitely in your best interest. It enables your dentist to make adjustments to your treatment that will either speed things along or make sure your smile looks and functions flawlessly by the time you’re done with your last tray.
About the Author
Dr. Proshat Shahrestany founded Studio City Dental Arts in 2012, and for over 15 years, she has helped hundreds of patients enjoy the benefits of Invisalign while correcting their crooked teeth and misaligned bites. If you would like to learn more, contact our office online or call 818-760-0200 to schedule an appointment.