With more than 17 million patients around the world, Invisalign is one of the most popular orthodontic treatments. There are several reasons for this, including that the average treatment timeline is only 12-18 months (while traditional braces can take 3+ years). To ensure your teeth-straightening journey is smooth and seamless, there are a few do’s and don’ts you need to keep in mind, including:
1. Do Clean Your Aligners After Each Meal
Remember, your aligners will discolor if you don’t take good care of them. So, it’s important that you get into the habit of rinsing them with cool water every time you take them out, and that you use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear, mild dishwashing liquid to clean them after each meal.
2. Don’t Use Harsh Cleaning Products
If your aligners are starting to smell or you need to wear them longer than anticipated, do not use harsh cleaners, like bleach. In fact, you shouldn’t even use toothpaste since the abrasive ingredients can leave behind small scratches. If you want to give your trays a deeper clean, then use the cleaning crystals that came in your welcome kit!
3. Do Wear Your Aligners for 20+ Hours a Day
Although each treatment plan is unique, there are some aspects of Invisalign that are universal, like the daily wear time. To avoid lengthy delays, you need to wear your aligners for a minimum of 20 hours a day, every day. If you’re not quite sure if you’re meeting the mark, use the stopwatch on your phone as a guide!
4. Don’t Wrap Your Trays in a Napkin
Although you’ll be wearing the aligners for the vast majority of the day, you will take them out before eating or completing your oral hygiene regimen. It’s important that you don’t wrap them in a napkin, place them on your plate, or leave them on the bathroom counter. After all, this dramatically increases the chances of them getting damaged or misplaced.
5. Do Prioritize Your Progress Visits
While there aren’t monthly adjustment appointments with Invisalign, there are progress visits every 6-8 weeks. That way, your orthodontist can take new scans of your teeth, monitor their movement, and ensure you’re on-track with your treatment plan. If you aren’t, don’t panic – they can determine why that is and what adjustments need to be made.
About the Practice
For our top-rated team at Willow Bend Orthodontics of Plano, custom orthodontic care is just the beginning. We’re proud to offer several smile-enhancing treatments at our office, including Invisalign, and provide support throughout the teeth-straightening process so it’s as positive, comfortable, and seamless as possible. If you are interested in learning more about life with clear aligners, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us via our website or by phone at (972) 732-1400.