Will Invisalign wear down my tooth enamel?
Invisalign aligners are a popular choice for patients in Wallasey who want to straighten their teeth. However patients sometimes raise the concern that Invisalign could wear down or erode their tooth enamel. It is natural to be worried; nobody wants to undergo teeth-straightening treatment only to find that it has caused another problem.
The good news is that Invisalign aligners themselves do not wear down or damage your tooth enamel. However, improper oral care while you are wearing aligners can lead to a higher risk of erosion and demineralisation of the teeth. This is often due to acids, either naturally produced by bacteria in your mouth or from acidic food or drink.
Let’s explore how this happens and what you can do to reduce the risk.
About enamel erosion and demineralisation
Enamel erosion caused by acid happens when enamel comes into contact with acidic substances; either those in food or drink, or from your mouth’s natural bacteria. This is sometimes referred to as an ‘acid attack’.
When your enamel is eroded, or if you have cavities, this can cause your enamel to become softer and wear off as its natural minerals are lost (demineralisation).
Your saliva can neutralise acids and remineralise your enamel. However, if you eat sugary or acidic food and drink frequently, your saliva can gradually become less effective at doing this, and your enamel can erode further.
Over time, this means your enamel will stop protecting your teeth so well as the dentin and pulp underneath become exposed. You may experience the following symptoms:
Tooth sensitivity (especially to hot and cold drinks)
Discolouration
Chips or cracks
Transparency
Tooth pain
Increased risk of tooth decay
Can wearing aligners cause problems for my teeth?
Research into clear aligners is still emerging, but studies on fixed braces highlight some risks that are worth considering.
For example, both aligners and braces can create a microenvironment around your teeth. This can cause some potential issues. This can include preventing or impeding your saliva from flowing around the teeth, meaning that remineralisation is less effective. Braces can also cause a niche where bacteria can flourish. This can lead to formation of dental plaque, and ultimately, inflammation and decay.
It is important to note that Invisalign aligners are removable and have no wires or brackets where food can get trapped – this is why we advise removing them before eating. Many patients find them easier to clean their teeth with than traditional fixed braces.
In addition, misaligned teeth can themselves lead to demineralisation, as ‘pockets’ of plaque can be created within gaps. An incorrect bite can also lead to enamel erosion if your teeth rub against each other when you chew.
However, it’s important to clean your aligners properly and take them out to eat and drink (except water). This is because sugary or acidic foods could become trapped in the aligners, adding to the risk of demineralisation and tooth decay.
Preventing demineralisation of tooth enamel while wearing Invisalign
Demineralisation of your tooth enamel can cause sensitivity, pain, and potentially serious dental issues such as tooth decay. Here are some tips on how to prevent demineralisation with Invisalign clear aligners.
Wear your aligner for 20-22 hours per day and keep it clean
Avoid or limit acidic or sugary food and drink
Drink plenty of still water (not sparkling, as this can erode enamel)
Regularly floss and brush your teeth, using any tools advised by your dentist
Eat high-calcium foods (milk, cheese, leafy green vegetables, fish)
Do not eat and drink while wearing aligners
Use the mouthwash advised by your dentist
Some medications can impede saliva production, causing a dry mouth. If you are on any medication, ensure that you keep hydrated throughout the day, as this will encourage the body to produce saliva.
Visiting the dentist regularly for routine checkups can help prevent, identify and treat any issues, as we will spot areas where the enamel may be weaker. Our trained hygienist in Wallasey will also clean your teeth professionally, avoiding a plaque buildup.
Can aligners really harm your tooth enamel?
With a proper oral care routine, Invisalign clear braces should not erode or demineralise your enamel; they are removable and have no brackets or wires, making it less likely that food can get stuck in between your teeth. However, it’s important that you wear your aligners as instructed by your dentist, cleaning them regularly and maintaining a good oral care routine.
If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity or pain and are wearing Invisalign, please make an appointment at Wallasey Village Dental Practice so we can find the best treatment for you.
Book your Invisalign consultation here
FAQs
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Many of our patients in Wallasey prefer Invisalign because it is easier to clean your teeth, and less easy for plaque to build up. However, both aligners and braces have advantages and disadvantages; if you need something you can remove when necessary, Invisalign may be ideal, but if you have more complex orthodontic issues, braces may be more suited for your needs.
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Not always. If it is treated and stopped early, then you should not always develop cavities as a result. However, if you have had a cavity, you may develop some demineralisation around the area and may develop a white spot. We offer a choice of cosmetic treatments in order to treat this; for more information, ask your dentist.
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No; erosion can also be caused by alignment and bite issues, such as an underbite or crossbite; Invisalign is effective at treating these. It can also be caused by grinding your teeth (bruxism). If you grind your teeth, we suggest wearing a night guard to prevent this.
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Invisalign starts from £3500; however, we have a range of flexible finance plans for your peace of mind. You can view a full price list here.