There are plenty of ways how one can improve their smile. However, there are some scenarios where practicing good oral hygiene isn’t enough, as it requires invasive manipulation of one’s teeth. Having dental braces helps to manipulate one’s teeth and align them in the perfect position.
However, not everyone is comfortable wearing regular braces as they opt for something more subtle like Invisalign braces.
What Are Invisalign Braces?
For starters, Invisalign braces help position one’s teeth in their proper place using a thin, invisible jacket that you wear over your mouth. Depending on the tooth’s position, an orthodontist might require weekly or bi-weekly visits to perform adjustments. This will usually take from 12 to 18 months. They’re removable, compared to traditional metal braces that come in permanent.
Since they’re invisible and removable, they can also be prone to damage and stains. You must practice proper care and maintenance to keep them in their best shape until your next adjustment. They go over your mouth, so you shouldn’t bite into them as they can still tear and break. This requires you to remove them while eating and drinking.
Removing Your Invisalign Braces
Wearing Invisalign braces during a workout depends on the intensity of your training. If you’re planning on doing a less intense session, it’s possible to keep them on while you’re working out. Some activities don’t need to be affected just because you’re wearing your Invisalign braces. This can include cardio exercises, including yoga, running, or jumping rope. As you try to keep your Invisalign during your light workout, ensure that you keep yourself extra hydrated, as this can cause extra dryness in your mouth.
In some cases, if you plan on doing a high-intensity workout, it’s better to take them out before proceeding with your session. Wearing your Invisalign braces while doing so can be difficult, especially since these types of activities allow the accumulation of dryness and spit in your mouth, providing discomfort to you orally. Ensure that you store them in a safe and hygienic place and wear them afterward.
Wearing A Mouthguard
If you’re planning on doing an activity that requires wearing a mouthguard, it’s safe to remove your Invisalign braces before doing so. Wearing braces underneath the mouthguard can lessen the protection needed for your teeth. Keep in mind to never wear Invisalign braces underneath anything.
Moreover, keeping your Invisalign braces under your mouthguard might not allow for proper placement as they might loosely fit inside your mouth. It can also damage your braces as they’re not designed to be beneath any other material or object apart from your mouth.
How Long Can You Take Off Your Invisalign Braces?
Since some sports or workout routines will require you to take off your Invisalign braces, you need to be mindful of how long you can take them off. Taking them off for too long might affect your Invisalign braces’ effectiveness, which can waste money.
Most orthodontists recommend you keep your aligners on for at least 21 to 22 hours daily. This will help your Invisalign braces to work at their best. However, you also need to consider that you’ll be removing your Invisalign braces while you eat during the day. This can take 30 minutes to an hour per meal, so you must consider that.
When removing your Invisalign braces, place them inside their case to avoid losing them and keep them clean. Ensure that you put them inside your mouth immediately once you’re free.
Maintaining Your Invisalign Braces
Apart from learning that you can take off your braces while you do a light workout and eat, there are more things you need to know to keep them in their best shape. This way, you can make the most out of your Invisalign braces and allow yourself to have a beautiful set of teeth.
Brushing Your Teeth Before Putting Them Back
Since you’ll be removing your Invisalign braces before you eat, your teeth might home some food particles in between your teeth. To prevent tooth decay or cavities, brush your teeth before putting your braces back. You can begin by gulping a glass of water to flush everything out and follow it with a tooth-brushing action. This will help guarantee that your mouth is thoroughly clean and won’t trap any food particles.
Don’t Drink Anything Apart From Water
There’ll be instances when you’ll get thirsty during the day. While it might be tempting to drink a cup of coffee with your braces on, it’s best to remove them. Drinking with your aligners on can cause staining. The only beverage you can drink with your Invisalign braces is water, as they’re safe and colorless.
Takeaway
Knowing when to take your Invisalign braces off will help maximize their function and benefits. While removing them every time you need to do a quick workout might be a hassle, this will guarantee the safety of your braces. You can always put them back afterward. Remember to wear your Invisalign braces for at least 21 to 22 hours daily. So, you might need to make some mealtime adjustments.