Clear aligner orthodontics (such as Invisalign or Smart Aligners) offer the major advantages of being transparent, removable, and discreet.
However, there are also less obvious risks that come with them:

✅ Long wear time creates a moist environment in the mouth
Clear aligners are recommended to be worn more than 20 hours a day.
This keeps your mouth in a sealed environment for extended periods, making it easier for bacteria to multiply—raising the risk of cavities and gum disease.

✅ Frequent snacking or sugary drinks can directly impact your oral health
Just thinking, “I only drank a little…” or “It wasn’t water, but I took it out right after…” can leave sugars or acids trapped inside the aligner.
This creates a perfect environment for tooth decay.

✅ Cavities that progress silently and invisibly
Even if you have regular dental visits during orthodontic treatment, the focus is often on tooth movement.
Meanwhile, hidden cavities between the teeth or plaque buildup on molars may quietly progress unnoticed.

🛡 Prevention = Daily Care + Professional Support

🪥 1. Maintain a strict home care routine
– Always brush and floss after removing aligners
– Clean aligners daily using lukewarm water and a designated cleanser
– Never reinsert aligners right after eating or drinking (your mouth should be clean beforehand)

🧑‍⚕️ 2. Get professional cleanings regularly
During aligner treatment, it’s highly recommended to get preventive cleanings every 1 to 3 months.
At Ginza ONE Dental & Orthodontics, we offer the following care:

✔ PMTC (Professional Mechanical Tooth Cleaning)
Removes biofilm and tartar that toothbrushes can’t reach, preventing cavities and gum disease.

✔ AIRFLOW® Polishing
Uses ultra-fine powder and water spray to gently remove stains and plaque, leaving teeth smooth and clean.

✔ Oral Checkups + Bite Assessment
We screen for early signs of cavities or gingivitis, and provide appropriate treatment or lifestyle guidance.

👀 Watch for these signs during treatment:

– Sticky or slimy feeling after removing aligners
– Floss catches or has an unpleasant odor
– Red, swollen gums or bleeding when brushing
– Sensitivity to cold foods or drinks

These could be early warning signs of tooth decay or gum disease.
Even during treatment, it’s crucial not to ignore symptoms—early action is key.

💬 Preventive Support at Ginza ONE Dental & Orthodontics

We prioritize prevention alongside orthodontic treatment, especially for aligner patients.
Here’s how we support you:

– Specialized maintenance menus tailored for aligner users
– Careful guidance on daily habits and diet
– Orthodontic plans focused on long-term stability and oral health

Even perfectly aligned teeth lose their value if cavities compromise them.
Invisible treatment shouldn’t mean invisible risks.
Orthodontic treatment is the perfect time to take charge of your dental health.

📍Ginza ONE Dental & Orthodontics
Ginza 2112 Building 11F, 2-11-2 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Let your clear aligners reflect not just your smile—but also your commitment to long-term health.