As the sun starts to shine from behind rain clouds and we make our way toward summer, you’re probably not thinking about how the weather will affect your teeth. However, if you have or are considering Invisalign braces, the weather plays an important role in caring for your Invisalign trays and retainers. Could direct sunlight damage your aligners? Absolutely. Can Invisalign trays melt in a hot car? Unfortunately, yes.
Let’s take a look at how to keep your Invisalign trays intact during the summer months. If you have questions about how specific situations will impact your dental care, talk to your orthodontist or contact our office.
Yes, leaving your Invisalign trays in a hot car could melt them
Depending on where you live, a summer day can lead to oppressively high car temperatures. Residents of Southern California are no strangers to getting into a car only to find the interior unbearably hot. Even on a 70 degree day, a car could reach 100 degrees after being parked in the sun for ninety minutes. With the climate crisis only intensifying the summer heat, car temperatures could reach a life threatening 130 degrees this summer.
If you’re feeling the heat inside your car, you can bet your Invisalign trays are too. Invisalign braces are made from a clear, thermoplastic material crafted to fit your teeth. That means they can easily melt in high temperatures. Therefore, you should keep your aligners in a portable case to prevent your Invisalign trays melting in a hot car. For added protection, store your case in a dry, cool place or take the case with you when you’re on the go.
Watch out for the stove too!
A hot car is not the only thing that can lead to melted Invisalign trays. Wearing Invisalign trays while eating or having them near the stove can also damage them. If you take out your retainers to taste food while cooking, be sure to place them in their case away from the stove to prevent melting or breaking the trays. We also recommend rinsing your retainers in lukewarm water only before putting them back in after eating.
Melted Invisalign trays are obviously not wearable, but can you still wear cracked Invisalign trays? In general, yes. However, some damage is significant enough to reduce your treatment’s efficacy. If you have a damaged Invisalign aligner and want to see if you need a replacement, or just want to learn more about today’s invisible braces, contact the best Orthodontist in your area.