Invisalign treatment is a popular orthodontic treatment for both adults and teenagers. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are clear and virtually invisible, making them nearly undetectable to other people. In addition, Invisalign aligners can be removed for eating and brushing, making them much more comfortable and convenient than traditional braces. If you’re considering Invisalign or just starting out, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind.
1. Remove Your Aligners When Eating, Drinking, and Brushing
It can be tempting to take your aligners out for different occasions, but it’s important to only remove them for eating, drinking, and brushing. Removing them while eating will help to ensure that your aligners stay clean and free of food particles, which can cause staining and bad breath. Additionally, removing your aligners for extended periods can increase the risk of them becoming lost or damaged -and work against your treatment plan. When you need to take them out, brush your teeth before putting them back in. This will help to remove any food particles that may be clinging to your aligners or teeth. With a little care, you can keep your Invisalign aligners clean and healthy – and your smile looking its best.
2. Handle Your Aligners with Care
It’s important to store your aligners properly when not wearing them. The first step is to rinse your aligners off with lukewarm water. This will help to remove any food particles or other debris that may be stuck to the aligners. Once your aligners are clean, you should place them in a storage case specifically designed for Invisalign aligners. It helps to keep them clean and protected from damage. It’s also important to ensure that your storage case is kept away from direct sunlight or excessive heat, as this can cause the aligners to become warped. Make sure not to lose your aligners since they can be expensive to replace.
3. Clean Your Aligners Regularly
Just like your teeth, your Invisalign aligners need to be kept clean. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners back in, and brush your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least once a day. You can also soak your aligners in Invisalign’s cleaning crystals or a denture-cleaning solution to help keep them clean.
4. Don’t Delay Your Treatment
If you experience discomfort or problems with your aligners, don’t delay seeking treatment from your orthodontist. Occasionally, aligners that don’t fit properly can cause irritation, sores, or other problems. If you delay treatment, you may end up needing to wear your aligners for a longer period. And make sure to switch to your new aligners according to your treatment schedule.
5. Be Patient
Orthodontic treatment takes time, so patience is important throughout the process. Most people need to wear Invisalign aligners for about a year, though treatment time can vary depending on the severity of your orthodontic problem. Be sure to follow your orthodontist’s instructions and attend all your scheduled appointments to get the best results from your treatment.
Schedule an Appointment
Following these tips can help you get the most out of your Invisalign aligners and ensure that you have a successful orthodontic treatment. For more information, read our Invisalign Aligners Tips and Tricks here. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kathryn Swan at Swan Orthodontics in Caledonia, MI. You can contact us by visiting our website and filling out a consultation form to get started.