When it comes to orthodontic treatment, Invisalign has become one of the most effective and popular choices in America. It’s known for its fast correction times, discreet appearance, and ease of use compared to traditional braces. However, if you’re just starting your treatment, it can be a little daunting. Read on to find some simple “dos” and “don’ts” to help guide you for an easygoing Invisalign experience.
Invisalign Dos
Want to make the most of your treatment and finish with time to spare? Here are some effective suggestions:
Keep Up with Your Oral Hygiene
You should quickly get into the habit of brushing and flossing your teeth after every meal. This practice prevents food particles from being trapped under the aligners when you put them back in. Over time, this can prevent cavities, bad breath, and discoloration on your aligners.
Wear Your Invisalign Aligners Consistently
For Invisalign to work effectively, you need to wear your aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours a day. So, try to only remove them for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. Consistent wear ensures that your teeth move as planned and there are no setbacks in your treatment plan.
Keep Your Previous Aligner Handy
It’s a terrible feeling when you lose an aligner and then have nothing to fall back on until you can get a replacement. So, try to keep track of your most recent aligner after you switch to the next set. This will minimize disruption to your treatment if you break or misplace an aligner.
Invisalign Don’ts
Here are some practices to avoid to keep your treatment on track and prevent complications:
Don’t Use Hot Water to Clean Aligners
Hot water can warp and damage your aligners. Always use lukewarm water for rinsing and cleaning. Also, avoid leaving your aligners on your car’s dashboard or near the stove when cooking!
Don’t Eat or Drink with Aligners in Your Mouth
Get in the habit of removing your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with aligners can cause them to bend, crack, or become a breeding ground for bacteria. Over time it will also stain the clear plastic, making them far more visible.
Don’t Skip Appointments
Regular checkups with your dentist are important to monitor your progress and resolve any issues. Skipping appointments can delay your treatment and lead to complications.
By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a beautiful, straight smile with Invisalign. Consistency and care are key to making the most of your treatment, so treat your aligners—and your teeth—with care!
About the Author
If you’re looking for a talented and compassionate Invisalign provider in Maryville, Dr. Barry Miller is a great fit! Even after receiving his dental doctorate from The Ohio State University, he continues to expand his skills through continuing education. Whether it’s advanced courses in various treatments or researching the latest trends in dental technology, Dr. Miller is a lifelong learner who wants to help you smile better! Call (937) 642-3434 to schedule an Invisalign consultation or visit the website to learn more.