If you’re considering or already using Invisalign to perfect your smile, congratulations! Invisalign is a revolutionary way to straighten teeth without the hassle and visibility of traditional metal braces. However, getting the best results requires consistency and care. That’s why we’ve put together this guide of do’s and don’ts to ensure your treatment goes as smoothly as possible.
The Do’s of Wearing Invisalign
1. Do Wear Your Aligners for At Least 20-22 Hours a Day
The most crucial part of Invisalign treatment is consistency. You’ll need to wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily to ensure your teeth shift as planned. Only remove them for eating, drinking anything other than water, or cleaning your teeth and aligners.
Wearing them for less time can delay your treatment, and no one wants to add unnecessary weeks or months to the timeline!
2. Do Clean Your Aligners Properly
Your aligners are in your mouth for most of the day, so keeping them clean is essential. Lack of care can lead to bacteria buildup, discoloration, and funky odors. Always rinse your aligners with lukewarm water when removing them and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste at least once a day.
Avoid using hot water to clean your Invisalign aligners, as it could warp the plastic.
3. Do Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Your dentist will provide specific instructions tailored to your case, including when to switch to a new set of aligners or if there are additional attachments for your teeth. Following these instructions precisely will keep your treatment on track and ensure the best results.
4. Do Use a Case to Store Your Aligners
Whenever you remove your aligners, use the provided case to store them. Avoid wrapping them in napkins since they can easily be mistaken for trash and thrown away. Aligners are custom-made, so losing or damaging them can disrupt your progress and potentially result in extra costs.
5. Do Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Maintaining healthy teeth and gums throughout your Invisalign treatment is essential. Brush and floss after every meal to ensure that no food particles are trapped under your aligners. Trapped debris can lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay, which might derail your progress.
6. Do Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dry mouth, a common issue when wearing aligners. Staying hydrated also flushes away bacteria that may accumulate around your mouth and aligners, keeping your smile fresh and clean.
The Don’ts of Wearing Invisalign
1. Don’t Eat or Drink Anything (Except Water) While Wearing Aligners
Aligners are not designed to handle the pressure of chewing or to withstand the acidity or staining from drinks like coffee, tea, or soda. Remove your aligners before eating or drinking, and rinse them (and your mouth) before putting them back in to maintain their clarity and hygiene.
2. Don’t Skip Your Dental Appointments
Regular checkups are critical to monitor your progress. Your dentist needs to ensure that your teeth are shifting according to plan, make any necessary adjustments, and provide you with your next set of aligners. Skipping appointments can lead to delays or even complications in your treatment plan.
3. Don’t Use Harsh Cleaning Products
Avoid using harsh soaps, denture cleaners, or bleach to clean your aligners. These products can damage the aligners or leave behind toxic residue. Stick to gentle cleaning methods recommended by your dentist to keep your aligners in optimal condition.
4. Don’t Leave Your Aligners Exposed
Leaving your aligners out in the open makes them susceptible to germs, dirt, and accidental damage. Always store them in a clean case when they’re not in your mouth.
5. Don’t Forget to Remove Your Aligners While Playing Contact Sports
If you’re involved in contact sports, wearing aligners could increase the risk of injury to your mouth. Always remove them and wear a proper mouthguard for protection during sports.
6. Don’t Rush or Skip Wearing a New Set
Switching to a new set of aligners too early or wearing them for less than the prescribed duration can negate the progress made with the previous aligners. Be patient and follow your dentist’s timeline.
Common Questions About Wearing Invisalign
Can I Chew Gum With Invisalign?
No, chewing gum can stick to your aligners and cause stains or damage. Instead, remove your aligners before chewing gum and brush your teeth before replacing them.
What If I Lose an Aligner?
If you lose or damage an aligner, contact your dentist immediately. Delaying the replacement of a missing aligner can prolong your treatment. Always keep your previous aligner as a backup until you start a new set.
Will I Talk Funny While Wearing Invisalign?
You may notice a slight lisp when you first start wearing aligners, but this usually disappears as you get used to them. Practice speaking out loud to get comfortable and accelerate this adjustment period.
The Payoff of Proper Invisalign Care
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your Invisalign treatment is as effective and efficient as possible, leading to the smile of your dreams. Proper care minimizes delays and complications while maximizing comfort and hygiene throughout the process.
If you’re considering starting treatment and want to know more about how Invisalign works, check out this guide.
The road to a perfect smile takes a bit of effort, but the results will be more than worth it! With proper care, dedication, and consistent follow-through, you’ll enjoy a beautifully aligned smile that lasts a lifetime.