Given what you’ve heard, you may think Invisalign protects your teeth as it works. Many people see its plastic as a “smile shield” – something that defends against oral health risks. That said, you can actually get cavities during Invisalign treatment if you’re careless. Unless you actively look after your grin, the aligners won’t prevent decay. To prove these facts, here’s a primer on Invisalign, whether it allows for cavities, and how to avoid tooth decay during treatment.
Context: How Invisalign Works
Of course, it’s no surprise that some see Invisalign as the ultimate smile defense. The treatment differs quite a bit from “traditional” orthodontic options like metal braces.
Unlike older methods, Invisalign straightens your smile with clear plastic trays. These removable “aligners” shift your teeth as they’re worn over both arches. By wearing sets of them for an extended period, they’ll slowly bring your grin (and your bite) into proper alignment. You just need to switch to new trays every few weeks or so.
Most patients can complete Invisalign in 12-18 months, assuming they stick to the treatment’s guidelines. They’ll then have a smile that’s perfectly aligned!
Can You Get Cavities During Treatment?
Despite the points above, Invisalign doesn’t make tooth decay impossible. A patient could get cavities even as they receive treatment.
The issue is that Invisalign trays are removable. Since you can take them off for meals and oral care, your aligners may “trap” bacteria and other debris on your teeth. That means they could allow – or even put you at greater risk of – cavities and similar decay.
For the record, these facts don’t imply that “Invisalign cavities” are inevitable. They just show such decay is a definite possibility.
How to Prevent Cavities During Invisalign
If there’s any good news, it’s that you can prevent cavities during Invisalign. You simply need to use the following tricks:
- Remember Your Oral Hygiene – You’ll remove debris that Invisalign could trap by brushing and flossing after every meal. You’d then avoid the formation of even minor cavities.
- Keep Your Trays Clean – To keep harmful bacteria away from your smile, remember to clean your trays whenever you take them out.
- Stick to Water – You should only drink water when wearing your Invisalign trays. Stay away from soda, juice, etc.
- Attend Dental Checkups – Another way to avoid decay is to attend regular dental checkups with your dentist (or orthodontist). Through such monitoring, cavities can be prevented.
While you can get cavities during Invisalign, whether you will or won’t depends on you. Remember the tips above so your alignment goes smoothly.
About the Practice
Westside Dental Associates is based in Los Angeles, CA. Led by Dr. Les Latner, our practice is always ready to help patients with its gentle and highly effective dentistry. That means we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative services tailored to your smile’s needs, ensuring the best results possible. Our team takes this approach so you and your family get the grins you deserve! For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (310)-765-7441.