The role of saliva in oral health and Invisalign maintenance

As a dental practice, we understand the importance of maintaining good oral health at Vogue Dental Care and that includes proper care of your clear aligners. Saliva plays a significant role in maintaining oral health, and its impact should not be underestimated. In this article, we will discuss the role of saliva in oral health, how it relates to Invisalign Luton treatment, and how to maintain a healthy oral environment while using clear aligners.

The unexpected importance of saliva

Saliva is very important in maintaining oral health. It serves several vital functions, such as moistening food for easier swallowing, aiding in digestion by breaking down carbohydrates, and providing enzymes that help destroy harmful bacteria in the mouth. Saliva also helps neutralise acids produced by bacteria, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left unchecked.

One of the most critical roles saliva plays in oral health is its ability to remineralise tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the outside layer of your teeth that shelters it from decay. When acidic substances in the mouth break down the enamel, saliva provides essential minerals such as calcium and phosphate to help rebuild and strengthen the enamel.

Clear aligner treatment and saliva

Invisalign Luton treatment uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions. These aligners are custom-made for each patient and need to be worn for at least 20-22 hours a day to achieve the desired results. Because the aligners are in direct contact with your teeth, maintaining a healthy oral environment is crucial for the success of the treatment.

Saliva plays a vital role in keeping your aligners clean and free of harmful bacteria. While wearing your aligners, saliva continues to flow around your teeth, helping to rinse away food particles and bacteria. However, the presence of the aligners can sometimes reduce the amount of saliva in your mouth, making it more challenging to maintain a healthy oral environment.

Maintaining a healthy oral environment during treatment

To ensure the success of your treatment and maintain good oral health, it is essential to adopt a consistent oral hygiene routine. Here are some ideas to help you out.

Brush and floss regularly

Brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline.

Clean your aligners

Rinse your aligners every time you remove them, and clean them thoroughly at least once a day using a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid using toothpaste or abrasive cleaning agents, as they can damage the aligners.

Keep your mouth hydrated

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to promote saliva production and prevent dry mouth. Avoid excessive consumption of sugary drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay and negatively impact your treatment.

Maintain regular dental check-ups

Visit our dental practice regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings. This will help us monitor your progress with Invisalign Luton and address any potential issues early on.

How we can help

At Vogue Dental Care in Luton, we are proud to offer Invisalign treatment as an effective and discreet way to improve your smile. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, from your initial consultation to the completion of your treatment. We will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your aligners.