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Dental Cleaning After Invisalign?

I am getting Invisalign on Tuesday. My dentist called me yesterday, and I have an appointment to get my teeth cleaned on Thursday. I have to get 12 buttons put in, since I'm getting Invisalign on Tuesday, and my teeth cleaned on Thursday, will it be okay, or should I reschedule the cleaning? My only concern is the buttons will come off.

Doctor Answers 4

November 15th, 2009

You should keep the cleaning appointment after Invisalign

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The buttons are all going to be on the front side of the tooth. Usually the calculus develops on the backside of the tooth (where the tongue touches). Removing the calculus from the tooth is the most important part of the cleaning because over accumulation of calculus which harbors harmful bacteria can lead to periodontal disease. Also, the plaque usually develops first around the gum line and the buttons usually don't reach down there, so the polishing will still be effective. Keeping on your cleaning schedule will be just fine.


Bellevue Dentist

November 9th, 2009

Cleaning appointments during Invisalign

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You should keep your cleaning appointment. If a button comes off, it's easily replaced. The buttons are bonded on and will not likely come off during a cleaning. I recommend my patients have their teeth cleaned more frequently (3-4x/year as opposed to 2-3x/year) during Invisalign (all orthodontic) treatment.

Learn more: http://www.atlantadentalspa.com/pages/services/Atlanta_invisalign.htm

Susan Goode Estep, DMD
November 8th, 2009

Keep cleanings during Invisalign treatment

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As with any orthodontic treatment I suggest even getting cleanings more often than the minimum of twice per year.  The buttons are on the front surface of the teeth and wont interfere with the cleaning. If one does debond, it is very easily replaced

Jennifer Jablow, DDS
New York Dentist

November 7th, 2009

Process for placing the buttons includes cleaning the tooth surface

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To get the buttons to adhere, the surface of the teeth are thoroughly cleaned.  Once bonded in place, the surface is protected by the buttons and will remain this way until removed. 

Unless this is the first Invisalign case by your doctor, you should be fine (and even it is, you are likely fine).

Learn more: http://www.DrTimmerman.com

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.