• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
Sunnybrook Dental Facebook
Sunnybrook Dental Instagram
Book Appointment (712) 274-2338
(712) 274-2338
sunnybrook_dental-e1504625716968.png
  • GENERAL DENTISTRY
    • ​Dental Fillings
    • Dental Crowns
    • Dental Implants
    • Periodontal Services
  • ABOUT US
    • REVIEWS
    • MEET THE TEAM
    • MEET THE DOCTORS
    • OUR BLOG
  • NEW PATIENTS
    • MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM
  • Schedule
  • CONTACT
  • Pay Online
  • Pay Online
Maintaining Your Post-Invisible Aligner Smile

Maintaining Your Post-Invisible Aligner Smile

WHILE TRADITIONAL WIRE braces are still the most efficient at straightening teeth, fixing crowding, and correcting an underbite or overbite, invisible aligners have become an attractive alternative in recent years. Being able to get all the benefits of braces with such a low-profile appliance that can be removed for brushing, flossing, and eating can make the orthodontic process far more palatable.

But what’s next after you’ve progressed through every aligner tray and your teeth are perfectly aligned? What will it take to maintain the smile you’ve always wanted?

Wear Retainers As Recommended

In some cases, the final invisible aligner tray can be used initially as a full-time retainer and eventually as a nighttime one after the patient’s teeth are correctly aligned. In others, a separate retainer will be recommended, and those tend to be sturdier. No matter what type of retainer you end up with, be sure to follow the care instructions in order to keep it clean and effective as long as possible.

The reason it’s important to use retainers after the teeth are straight is that it can take around a year for the periodontal ligaments–the tiny connective tissue fibers that hold our teeth in place in our jaws–to get used to the new position. Without retainers, your teeth will be in danger of shifting back to the position those ligaments were used to.

Stay On Top Of Your Oral Hygiene

The most important component of post-aligner dental health is how well you take care of your teeth. That means maintaining good habits, such as:

  • brushing for two minutes twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
  • flossing daily with traditional floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser
  • avoiding sugary snacks and sodas that supercharge bad oral bacteria

Schedule Regular Dental Visits

No matter how straight your teeth are and how diligently you’re keeping them clean, they still need professional dental care twice a year. At our practice, we have the equipment and skill needed to thoroughly clean your teeth, take care of anything more extensive when needed, and help you make sure you’re on track with your own oral hygiene habits.

We Can Answer Your Questions!

If you have any questions about how to take care of your teeth post-invisible aligners, we’re happy to answer them. Call and set up an appointment today or leave your questions in the comments below and we’ll work with you to get the information you need to maintain a happy, healthy smile.

Congratulations on all your hard work to get straight teeth!

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

Sunnybrook Dental Footer Logo

CONTACT US

5845 Sunnybrook‎ Drive  |  Sioux City, IA 51106

Phone: 712-274-2338

Email: smile@sunnybrook-dental.com

 

Mon & Thurs: 8am–5pm     
Tues & Wed:  7am-5pm
Friday: 8am–12pm

 

INSURANCE PROVIDERS

Ameritas Plus

Blue Dental
Cigna Dental
Delta Dental
MetLife Dental

OUR PARTNERS

American Dental Association 

Iowa Dental Association 

Siouxland Chamber of Commerce

Credit Cards Accepted
Payment Methods
Sunnybrook Dental Facebook

Copyright © 2017 · Sunnybrook Dental · Privacy Policy · Terms of Service · Site Powered by LP Creative Co.