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When the mid-summer humidity peaks and temperatures climb, you might suddenly notice an unwelcome surprise during Invisalign treatment in Waterloo. Your aligners might start developing a persistent, stale odor or a cloudy white film much faster than they did during the winter.
At Icon Dental Clinic, we want to help you understand and avoid this issue. Keep reading for important tips to keep your breath perfectly fresh.
Humidity, Bacteria, and Aligner Smell
Your mouth is naturally home to a delicate ecosystem of bacteria. When you introduce the high physical temperatures and intense humidity of a typical Ontario summer, it turbocharges the microscopic organisms. Plaque bacteria multiply at an accelerated rate in warm conditions, rapidly building a dense, sticky community of biofilm on the aligner trays. If you pop your trays out and let them sit dry on a napkin while you eat a summer meal, the bacterial film bakes on instantly, creating a stale, sulfur-like smell.
The Risk of Abrasive Scrubbing
When a patient notices their Invisalign trays are smelling less than perfect, their immediate response is to brush them. People usually grab a firm toothbrush and aggressively scrub the inside of the plastic with regular toothpaste. This is a major counterproductive trap! Standard toothpastes contain abrasive microscopic minerals for polishing hard enamel, but they easily scratch aligner plastic. The tiny scratches trap more bacteria, only furthering the issue.
Read More: Invisalign for Teens: Because Life Doesn’t Slow Down for Braces
How to Sanitize Invisalign Trays This Summer
- The Cool Rinse: The moment you remove your trays, instantly submerge them in cool, flowing tap water so the soft saliva never gets a chance to dry out and bake onto the plastic.
- The Therapeutic Soak: Soak your aligners for fifteen minutes in a cup of lukewarm water mixed with a specialized, non-abrasive aligner cleaning crystal. If you do not have aligner cleaner, use a mild, unscented liquid soap.
- The Soft Brush Finish: Use an ultra-soft-bristled toothbrush to gently sweep away the loosened biofilm from the inner grooves, leaving the trays perfectly transparent.
Care for Your Trays and Smile at Icon Dental Clinic
At Icon Dental Clinic, we’re happy to help you keep your aligner trays and smile healthy and fresh. If you’re ready to begin Invisalign in Waterloo this summer, come on in for a consultation. We’ll provide important information and tips for a smooth treatment. Additionally, our dentist in Waterloo, ON, can help care for your smile even if you’re already in the middle of Invisalign treatment, with refreshment cleanings and personalized tips.
Contact us to schedule an appointment with Icon Dental Clinic today!
