There’s no doubt about it: Invisalign is considerably less of a hassle than traditional braces. After all, the aligners are removable, the average treatment timeline is shorter, and there aren’t any dietary restrictions. Of course, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t any guidelines you’ll need to stick to in order to stay on-track with your treatment plan. Read on to learn a few dos and don’ts with Invisalign!
1. Do Wear Your Aligners for 20 Hours a Day
Simply put, the more you wear your aligners, the less likely it is that you will fall off-track with your treatment plan. So, aim to keep yours on for a minimum of 20 hours a day. If you’re not sure if you’re meeting the mark, consider using the stopwatch on your phone or the timer on the Invisalign app as a guide!
2. Don’t Forget to Bring Your Trays to Your Progress Visits
Throughout your teeth-straightening journey, you’ll visit your dentist for progress visits. Make sure to always wear your aligners to your appointments, even if you are transitioning to the next set in the series afterward. You’d be surprised how quickly your teeth can move out of alignment, and you don’t want to lose any of the progress you’ve worked hard for!
3. Do Clean Your Aligners After Each Meal
In addition to brushing your teeth after each meal, you should get in the habit of cleaning your aligners after each meal. If that’s easier said than done because you’re always on the go, consider keeping a small case of travel-sized essentials with you, like a soft-bristled toothbrush. That way, you can keep your smile healthy, your trays clean, and your breath fresh no matter where your day takes you!
4. Don’t Use Hot Water to Clean Your Trays
Before you rinse your aligners, check the temperature of the water! If it’s too hot, then the plastic can warp, rendering your trays virtually useless. That’s why patients are encouraged to use room temperature or cold water instead.
5. Do Store Your Aligners Properly
Although it may be tempting to wrap your aligners in a napkin or place them on your bathroom counter, don’t! Doing so may seem harmless, but that’s often how they accidentally get thrown away, misplaced, or damaged. So, always place them in their designated case instead.
About the Practice
From your first visit, you’ll notice Allure Dental Boutique stands apart from the rest. Instead of a cold, unwelcoming office, you’ll experience white-glove hospitality, concierge-level touches, and a dedicated team to help you achieve your absolute best smile. So, if you want to straighten your teeth without the metal and enjoy the journey along the way, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us via our website or by phone at (813) 751-3044.