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 Clean Your Invisalign Like a Pro

Keeping your Invisalign aligners clean is essential—not just for a healthy smile, but for your overall oral health. When wearing Invisalign®, knowing the right cleaning routine can prevent plaque buildup, bad breath, and staining.

? For Invisalign®

Clear aligners are removable, but that doesn't mean they're maintenance-free. Here's how to keep them crystal clear and odor-free:

✅ Daily Cleaning Routine

• Rinse every time you remove them: This prevents saliva and bacteria from drying on the surface.

• Use a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap: Brush gently to avoid scratching. Avoid toothpaste—it can be too abrasive.

• Soak once a day: Use Invisalign cleaning crystals, denture tablets, or a mix of white vinegar and lukewarm water (equal parts). Soak for 15–30 minutes.

• Avoid hot water: It can warp the plastic and ruin the fit.

❌ What to Avoid

• No colored soaps or mouthwash—they can stain the trays.

• No abrasive toothpaste.

• Don't eat or drink (except water) with your aligners.

Call Dr. Azizi today for your complimentary consultation--

Ambler 215-646-9514 Glenside 215-576-6414

Summer is the perfect time to start your orthodontic journey! Whether you're considering braces or Invisalign, our team is here to help you achieve the confident, healthy smile you deserve.

At Azizi Orthodontics, Dr. Azizi offers personalized care in a warm, welcoming environment. From teens to adults, he believes it's NEVER too late to love your smile.

Book your complimentary consultation today — and let your smile shine all summer long!

? Call us at 215-646-9514 (Ambler)
215-576-6414 (Glenside)

You made the right choice for your child by taking them to Dr. Azizi for expert orthodontic care. But did you know that adults benefit even more from seeing an orthodontist for teeth straightening?

Dr. Azizi is a specialist in aligning teeth and jaws, he is trained to handle the unique needs of adult smiles. Whether it's for confidence, comfort, or oral health, it's never too late to improve your smile at our office.

Schedule your adult orthodontic consultation today — with Dr. Azizi, a smile tailored for your life.

Ambler #215-646-9514 Glenside#215-576-6414

As parents, we often seek comfort for our little ones—and thumb sucking is one of the earliest self-soothing behaviors babies adopt. While it's common and completely normal in infancy, prolonged thumb sucking can become a concern for dental and jaw development if it continues beyond a certain age.

Why Do Children Suck Their Thumbs?

Thumb sucking often begins in the womb and can offer a sense of security or help a child fall asleep. It's a natural reflex that many children outgrow between the ages of 2 and 4. However, if the habit continues as permanent teeth begin to emerge (around age 5 or 6), it may start to affect oral development.

Potential Dental Issues from Prolonged Thumb Sucking

Persistent thumb sucking can lead to:

• Improper alignment of the teeth (especially protruding front teeth)

• Changes in the roof of the mouth (palate)

• Bite problems such as open bite or crossbite

• Speech difficulties caused by misaligned teeth

The severity of the issue often depends on how intensely and frequently the child sucks their thumb.

When Should Parents Be Concerned?

If your child continues thumb sucking past the age of 4 or is doing it vigorously, it's a good idea to speak with your pediatric dentist or orthodontist. We typically recommend addressing the habit before the permanent teeth begin to erupt to avoid long-term complications.

Tips to Help Your Child Stop Thumb Sucking

1. Positive reinforcement – Praise your child when they're not sucking their thumb.

2. Identify triggers – Does it happen when they're tired, bored, or anxious? Address the root cause.

3. Use reminders – Gentle reminders (like a bandage or thumb guard) can help the child become more aware of the habit.

4. Create a reward system – Set achievable goals and celebrate small milestones.

5. Professional support – If needed, we can provide dental appliances that discourage thumb sucking in a non-punitive way.

Final Thoughts

Thumb sucking is a normal part of early childhood development, but it shouldn't be ignored if it persists past preschool years. As orthodontic specialists, we're here to guide you with gentle, effective solutions to protect your child's smile for years to come.

Have questions or want to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizi? Contact our office
at 215-646-9514 (Ambler) or 215-576-6414 (Glenside)—we're happy to help!

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