Since Invisalign aligners are clear, comfortable, and convenient, they’ve earned a reputation for being hassle-free. While that’s certainly true, especially compared to traditional braces, there are still some habits you need to incorporate into your routine (and some you need to avoid) to stay on-track with your treatment plan. Below, you’ll find five do’s and don’ts with Invisalign!
1. Do Wear Your Aligners for 20 Hours a Day
Although your aligners are removable, you need to be selective about when you take them off. In fact, you should only do so when absolutely necessary, like before you eat. You should also make wearing them for a minimum of 20 hours a day a priority (using the stopwatch on your phone as a guide will help immensely!).
2. Don’t Use Hot Water to Clean Your Aligners
Cleaning your aligners consistently is crucial when it comes to preventing stubborn stains and unpleasant odors from developing. That said, you need to be selective about what you use. In addition to not using toothpaste and bleach, it’s important that you avoid hot water. There is a simple reason for this: the high temperature can cause your aligners to warp. So, stick to room-temperature or cool water instead.
3. Do Prioritize Your Progress Visits
Every 6-8 weeks, you’ll meet with your orthodontist so they can take new scans of your teeth and make sure they are moving as anticipated. If they aren’t, then they can determine why that is as well as the best way to get you back on-track with your treatment plan. These visits are also a great opportunity to ask any questions you have about life with Invisalign!
4. Don’t Wrap Your Aligners in a Napkin
If you’re out at a restaurant or your clear aligner case isn’t close by, you might be tempted to wrap your trays in a napkin. Don’t! Although this may seem like a convenient and effective way to store them, it’s actually one of the most common reasons they get lost or misplaced.
5. Do Take Care of Your Smile
Remember, orthodontic emergencies aren’t limited to broken attachments and lost aligners. The development of tooth decay, gum disease, or another oral health problem will bring your teeth-straightening journey to a halt as well. To prevent that from happening, you need to prioritize your at-home oral hygiene regimen, starting with brushing your teeth for two full minutes each morning and night.
About the Practice
At Worcester Dental Arts, we want every patient to achieve their dream smile and enjoy their journey to it. That’s why we’re open five days a week, utilize cutting-edge dental technology, and are always just a phone call away if you have any questions for us about life with braces. If you are interested in scheduling a consultation or you need to get your next progress visit on the calendar, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (508) 793-2114.
