Getting Invisalign feels exciting at first, with the promise of a straighter smile without metal brackets poking your cheeks. But somewhere between appointment one and the finish line, a lot of patients get confused about what they can and cannot do with those clear aligners. That confusion is totally understandable, since nobody hands you a proper manual on day one.
Once the daily habits click into place, though, staying on track becomes second nature, and the results speak for themselves.
1. Adherence to the Whole Period of Wearing Aligners
Aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day in order to perform desired tooth movements. This leaves 2 to 4 hours for consuming food, drinks except water, brushing teeth and flossing. Lack of constant wearing may slow down the process, as teeth will move back to their previous position.
2. Taking Them Out Before Consuming Food or Non-Water Drinks
The only drink that may be consumed while wearing aligners is water. Coffee, tea, juices and sodas may not only stain the material but also allow liquids to enter the gap between aligners and teeth and provoke caries development. Hot beverages also cause the shape of aligners to deform due to the heating effect.
3. Brushing Teeth Before Wearing the Aligners Back
Missing the short period of brushing after eating means the longer food leftovers stay on enamel and increase the risk of decay. Flossing every day, especially before going to bed, removes interdental food remains that cannot be reached by brushing; thus, it ensures good dental hygiene and helps to maintain the good condition of the aligners.
4. Proper Cleanliness of the Aligners Twice a Day
Aligners should be washed in cold water to minimise odour and staining. More thorough cleaning can be performed using a soft brush and unscented soap. However, toothpaste is not recommended to avoid scratches on the surface of aligners.
5. Care of Aligners While Storing and Using Them
It is better not to leave aligners in a tissue or napkin since they may accidentally be thrown away in a trash can. Keeping the aligner case always nearby can eliminate the possibility of this.
6. No Heating Water and Bad Habits
Hot or boiling water causes instant deformations of the material; that’s why warm or cool water is recommended. Bad habits of chewing ice cubes, hard candies, pens and biting nails may damage both the teeth and bonded attachments, so they must be avoided during treatment.
7. Regular Appointments and Usage of Aligners According to the Schedule
Visiting a dentist once every 6 to 8 weeks allows the practitioner to control the treatment process and solve arising problems. Any premature or late change of aligner sets affects the whole treatment time frame.
How to Be Successful with Invisalign?
Efficiency of treatment with Invisalign largely depends on the patient’s discipline and positive daily habits. Adhering to the above rules will help you take care of your mouth in order to obtain good results from the treatment.
At Dental Expert, we will provide you with all necessary guidance throughout the Invisalign treatment period, starting from the very first fitting up to the final result. Contact us to start your journey towards a beautiful smile.