Cleaning after drinking vs eating

[Teefers]

Hi all,
I hope this is a simple question for you experienced wearers to field. I've been brushing _and_ flossing every time I've put the aligners back on because that's what my one-page InvisiAlign instructions implied. But I'm getting the sense that the flossing part may not be necessary every single time I put them back in? How often do you floss according to your orthodontist's instructions? Especially when you've only had a drink and no food?

Thanks!

[LeslieKnope]

I usually don't floss after meals unless I'm eating something that normally gets stuck in my teeth (like an apple or a fibrous cut of beef). I definitely don't floss after just a drink! I floss thoroughly before bed, brush with a Sonicare, and rinse with fluoride rinse. I haven't had any cavities develop yet, and I've worn Invisalign for almost 7 months.

[mogriff]

I floss after meals, but if I am out and about I forego it until I get home or somewhere convienient. I sometimes use those Wisp waterless, mini disposable toothbrushes with the built in toothpaste (but only if I can do it in my car). And If I'm only drinking, I don't floss.


Invisalign
2/24 U/L
Metal braces 14 years ago

[Teefers]

Interesting, useful responses, thanks! I tried a Wisp but it's a tad tricky with the bumpy attachments in my mouth and it didn't do well on the salad bits between my teeth. I resorted to brushing instead. Well no flossing every time...geez, no wonder I've been despising going out with the aligners. You'd think they'd tell you all this at the office, but then again it would probably be an hour seminar to provide all the scenarios that can happen in wearing these things.

[Bekster45]

I brush after every meal and WaterPik at night using low settings. I have floss in my bag in case I need to becasue something is caught, but otherwise don't floss. I had a 6month dental checkup (been in Invisalign just about 9 months) and was told 'keep doing whatever you are doing, everything looks great'.

[Boira]

I only floss after meals or when I eat solid foods. If I'm only drinking, then I don't floss.

[Teefers]

Great, thanks for the confirmation...no more over-flossing for me! And Bekster45, it's great to know that your routine has proved robust enough to pass a dentist's scrutiny after 9 months. Thanks folks.

I can only think that my ortho has given me the most stringent regiment for liability purposes. It wouldn't be in an ortho's best interest to tell you how to potentially not do 100% optimal wear and care. This forum is a godsend to fill in the crucial bit about how to actually cope in real life!