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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

You should keep the cleaning appointment after Invisalign

November 15th, 2009
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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.

M. Andrew Atwood, DDS


Bellevue Dentist
3.0 out of 5 stars 2 reviews

Cleaning appointments during Invisalign

November 9th, 2009
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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.

Susan Goode Estep, DMD

Susan Goode Estep, DMD
Atlanta Dentist
5.0 out of 5 stars 3 reviews

Keep cleanings during Invisalign treatment

November 8th, 2009
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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

Jennifer Jablow, DDS
New York Dentist

Process for placing the buttons includes cleaning the tooth surface

November 7th, 2009
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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).

Web reference: http://www.DrTimmerman.com

Lance Timmerman, DMD

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.