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Getting your braces off is exciting. You’ve been working on your new smile for months or years, and it’s time for the trips to our Naples, FL office to pay off. Can you imagine how bad it would be to discover that your teeth are straight, but that there’s decay?

Caring for your smile while wearing Invisalign goes beyond just waiting for your teeth to get straighter. It involves cleaning your teeth regularly and thoroughly to prevent tooth decay. That way, your smile will be more beautiful than ever when you’re done with your Invisalign treatment.

Take Your Trays Out

The first difference you may notice between Invisalign and traditional metal braces is that Invisalign aligners are invisible, but there’s another important distinction as well. Invisalign braces are removable. You can take the trays out, and you should. Remove the trays while you’re eating so you don’t get food stuck in them. Also, remove them while you’re cleaning your teeth so that you can have full access to all the nooks and crannies in your mouth.

Brush Normally

The guidelines for brushing your teeth with Invisalign don’t change compared to braces. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste, being sure to get all surfaces of your teeth. If possible, brush after each meal.

If you can’t, be sure to drink some water and swish it around in your mouth when you’re done eating to get rid of the extra food on your teeth. Leaving carbohydrates, such as sugar and starch, on your teeth opens the door to tooth decay.

Floss and Wash

Flossing your teeth gets out the bits and pieces stuck between them. It’s a time-consuming task when you need to navigate the wires of traditional metal braces, but thanks to Invisalign’s removable design, flossing is no problem. Rinsing your mouth with a fluoride antibacterial mouthwash also helps clean your teeth because it gets into all of the spaces. Floss and rinse one or two times daily.

Cleaning Your Trays

Cleaning your Invisalign trays keeps them from getting riddled with bacteria, and it helps keep your teeth free from excess food. You can use the Invisalign cleaning system, which involves placing the trays in a tub with cleaning crystals. The plastic trays are clean after 15 minutes. You can also ask Dr. Vincent Cardinale and Dr. Chris Moody for other ways to clean your trays.

Capturing the Moment

At Cardinale Dentistry we know that just about anyone who has taken on the challenge of planning her own wedding could tell you how important the little details can be. Things like having complementary colors, the right location, show-stopping flowers, and delicious food are all a big part of planning your spring wedding. Another little detail that has a big "I do" related role? Your smile.

Whether you’re the bride, or an attendant, looking your best when you tie the knot (or help someone tie the knot) is essential. If your teeth aren’t ready to make an entrance, turning to one of the many available teeth whitening solutions is a great option.

Reliable Solutions

Before the wedding day arrives, you should take your smile into consideration. If diet and daily wear-and-tear have caused your teeth to lose their original luster, our team can help! In-office procedures do cost more than kits you use at home, but with an in-office treatment, you benefit from a professional taking proper care of your teeth.

In addition, relying on our office to handle teeth whitening before the wedding can give you access to trustworthy advice on how to keep your teeth looking their best for a longer period of time. It’s common for someone experienced in assisting people with their oral health to suggest investing in an in-office whitening technique and then following up with a teeth-whitening kit at home.

This is a season of new beginnings and beauty. Take the time to bring out your most beautiful smile before the big day. Don’t let your smile hold you back on your wedding. With our in-office teeth whitening, you can be sure that you’ll be more confident and comfortable interacting with friends and family. So remember, when in need of some quality oral care in Naples, FL to think of Dr. Vincent Cardinale and Dr. Chris Moody!

I love you all!! Great all around

Been with you for many years & although we are further away, we still enjoy coming here

Beautiful office and people

I have always been taken care of well.  This is by far the best dentistry I've been to.

Kenny is the best

We are so pleased with the dental care and considerations shown to us.  Thanks for all you do.

Always love seeing you guys

Thank you very much

This was my first time at the office.  EVERYBODY was very friendly!  Staff works wonderful together.  I never felt rushed and everyone made me feel welcome.  Best dental office I've ever been to!  Dentists make me nervous but not there.  Best experience.

Please extend my gratitude again to Dr. Cardinale for helping to assuage my anxiety.

Had my teeth cleaned by Jayme.  She did an excellent job!

I have been going to Dr. Cardinale's office since I arrived in Florida probably 11 years ago.  I would recommend Dr. C and his staff to anyone and everyone.  My teeth attests to Dr. Cardinale's good care.

Love Jayme

Always a positive visit.  Genuine concern for patients.  Very aware of new technology and make recommendations for patients quality of life.

Everyone involved in my visit was very friendly and professional.  The staff and surroundings made me feel very comfortable and relaxed.  Dr. Cardinale was very informative and provided me with detailed information.

Kenny was great.  Very thorough and helpful regarding preventative issues.  And a great conversationalist!

Can't say I enjoy going to the dentist but if I have to, I cannot think of a better practice to go to.  The atmosphere in the office/staff are terrific.

Outstanding professional service!

Excellent dental care! Thank you

As always the service was great

Jayme is so professional, personable and knowledgeable.  She does an excellent job and I trust her judgement.

Kenny is the best! You have a great team.

Excellent experience for me as I have big sensitivity issues.

Kenny completed my cleaning and everyone is wonderful, welcoming and polite.  the staff are always smiling and always there to help! Thank you.

Great staff.

I am very satisfied with this office and staff, and would recommend you anytime.

You have done a lot of work to get the perfect smile. You wore your Invisalign aligner trays and cared for your teeth, and now your treatment is done. You still need to take care of your teeth to keep your beautiful smile. Keeps these things in mind when you think about your oral care routine.

Retainers

Many patients do require a retainer after Invisalign treatment. This will be based on your unique situation. If a retainer is recommended by Dr. Vincent Cardinale and Dr. Chris Moody, use it as directed. Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original position. You should also avoid hard, crunchy foods for the first couple of weeks as your teeth adjust. For younger patients, retainers are normally used until the wisdom teeth come in or are extracted.

Brushing and Flossing

Brushing and flossing must be part of your daily oral care. Flossing helps remove the plaque, which becomes tartar or calculus. This build up can lead to gingivitis and gum disease. Your gums may be more sensitive for a week or two after your orthodontic work is completed. A warm salt water rinse may relieve discomfort.

Your teeth may be slightly sensitive for a short time. They have been protected by your Invisalign aligner trays and now are fully exposed. You might want to try a sensitive toothpaste to get through the transition. Just ask; we will be glad to recommend the best type for your needs. If your teeth are stained, a professional whitening treatment can be considered.

Regular Dental Checkups

You still need to have regular dental exams. Professional cleanings and X-rays make sure that both your teeth and gums stay healthy so you can keep your teeth for life. If cavities or other problems are found, they can be taken care of quickly.

If you have any questions about how to care for your teeth after your Invisalign program, please ask our Naples, FL team. We want you to keep your healthy smile and enjoy the results of your Invisalign treatment.