Invisalign is known for being one of the most convenient and discreet ways to straighten your teeth. Because the clear aligners fit snugly over your smile, many patients assume their teeth are protected from decay during treatment. While Invisalign does help prevent food particles from sticking to your teeth, it’s still completely possible to get cavities while wearing aligners.
Understanding why they occur—and what to do if you see early signs of a problem—can help you keep your smile healthy from start to finish.
How Cavities Can Still Form with Invisalign
Although Invisalign aligners cover your teeth, they don’t create a seal that blocks out bacteria. Cavities form when plaque sits on teeth for too long and produces acids that wear down enamel. Because aligners fit tightly over your teeth, any sugar, bacteria, or debris left behind gets trapped against your enamel for hours at a time.
If you frequently snack, sip sugary drinks, or forget to brush before putting your aligners back in, the risk of decay increases. This is why Invisalign requires strong daily oral hygiene habits—your teeth may be moving, but they still need the same level of care and protection.
What to Do If You Think You Have a Cavity
If you notice sensitivity, dark spots, or lingering discomfort in a specific tooth, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. Treating a cavity early is essential during Invisalign treatment. In most cases, your dentist can fill a cavity without disrupting your orthodontic progress.
After the cavity is treated, your dentist may make small adjustments to your aligners or decide whether it’s necessary to reorder a few trays. Most patients can continue their Invisalign treatment with minimal interruption.
Ignoring a cavity, however, can lead to worsening decay, pain, or infection. The sooner you address the problem, the easier and more comfortable the solution will be.
Tips to Prevent Cavities During Invisalign Treatment
Keeping cavities at bay during Invisalign is absolutely possible with a few consistent habits. Brush your teeth thoroughly after every meal or snack before putting your aligners back in. This prevents plaque from getting trapped against your enamel.
Flossing once a day is also essential, as the aligners can make it easy to forget about cleaning between the teeth. Drinking more water throughout the day helps rinse food and bacteria off your teeth while keeping your aligners clean and fresh.
It’s also helpful to minimize frequent snacking or sipping sugary beverages. If you do indulge, be sure to clean your teeth first. Finally, attending your routine dental checkups ensures any early signs of decay are caught before they worsen.
With the right habits, you can keep your smile healthy while your teeth move into their ideal positions.
About the Practice
Coats Dental Group of Longmont offers comprehensive dental care in a friendly, patient-focused environment. Dr. Brian Coats and Dr. Kevin Coats specialize in preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry, including Invisalign treatment. Our team is dedicated to helping patients achieve beautifully aligned, healthy smiles through personalized care and modern dental technology.
Call us at (303) 776-4090 or request an appointment online.