Your smile introduces you to the world and you want that introduction to be a positive one. This fact explains why Invisalign® is one of the most popular orthodontic treatments in recent years, including Invisalign teen, with over 14 million people using them in 2022.
These braces don’t use brackets or wires; they use a series of customized plastic aligners that are nearly invisible to gently move your teeth into position as you wear them.
As with any prescribed treatment, it is important to follow your orthodontist’s or dentist’s instructions carefully while using Invisalign to achieve the desired result. We here at Ortho One will be with you every step of the way!
But, there are also ways you can improve your chance of success with these clear aligners and make the entire process as comfortable and cost-effective as possible.
In this article, we will offer some tips for Invisalign to help you get the most from your treatment.
First, let’s learn more about Invisalign.
Invisalign Treatment 101
The Invisalign aligners gently move your teeth into position in small increments. Your aligners are created using 3-D computer graphics, calibrated, and then manufactured to fit your mouth over a series of stages.
Your treatment plan will determine how many aligners are made for you. This could be as few as 12 aligners or as many as 48. Each is worn for about two weeks. By the end of your treatment, you will have the smile you have dreamed about!
Only dentists that have been trained and certified by Align Technology (including Dr. Abdollahi here at Ortho One) can advise and treat patients on the Invisalign System. It is not effective for everyone and is not appropriate for young children. We will help you make the best choice for your teeth, so don’t hesitate to ask all the questions you may have!
Invisalign for Teens addresses unique problems specific to that age group, such as compliance, root torque, and eruption control. If your teen is interested in the Invisalign system, we would be happy to talk to you about orthodontic treatment designed just for them.
Invisalign Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Treatment
#1 – Use Your Aligners as Much as Possible
Using clear aligners is a financial investment as well as an investment in yourself. In order for you to get the most out of what you put into wearing aligners, you should wear them about 22 hours a day. Anything less can sabotage your treatment, so remove them only to brush and floss your teeth, eat, and drink non-clear liquids.
At first, you may feel uncomfortable speaking with the aligners in place. Don’t take them out! Your speech may sound a bit different, but your mouth will adjust in a few days. You will sound normal before you know it.
#2 – Store Your Aligners Properly
When you do remove the aligners, store them in a case. You will be glad they’re where they belong when you realize you forgot to put them back in your mouth. Otherwise, they can become damaged or lost. Replacing them means more cost and time added to your treatment.
#3 – Clean Your Aligners
Clean the aligners as part of your regular daily dental routine. You can use antibacterial soap and warm water or a product made especially for aligners. Don’t use toothpaste as it is too abrasive for the plastic.
#4 – Continue Your Good Oral Hygiene Routine
When you take the aligners out to clean them, continue with your normal oral hygiene routine. Brush, floss, and rinse your teeth with the mouthwash your orthodontist recommends before you put the aligners back in.
#5 – Don’t Skip Routine Dental Cleanings
The Invisalign treatment plan can take several months. So, it’s important that you maintain your normal dental visits for exams and cleanings during this time. This will prevent any oral health problems from developing which would only delay your Invisalign treatment.
#6 – Don’t Ignore Any Tenderness/Soreness
The initial fit of your aligners may not be 100% comfortable. Adjusting to new aligners is normal. Don’t take them out if this happens, though. Try sucking on an ice cube to numb your gums and avoid chewy foods when your mouth is sore.
Never settle for rough edges on an aligner. If the edges of your aligners are bothering you, contact your orthodontist so it can be smoothed out as soon as possible.
#7 – Follow the Proper Schedule for Changing Your Aligners
Your orthodontist will give you a schedule for changing the aligners and the order in which to change them. It’s crucial that you follow this schedule. There is no need for your treatment plan to be longer than it has to be because you don’t change the aligners on time.
#8 – Keep Your Previous Set of Aligners
It’s a good idea to keep your previous set of aligners as you take them out and move to a new set. If you do, you’ll have a backup in case your current aligner is either lost or damaged. Then, your teeth will stay in place while you wait for a replacement to arrive. You will have to restart the two-week timeframe for the replacement but it’s better than not having anything in at all.
#9 – Take Your Aligners Out When You Eat
Invisalign clear aligners are designed to be as invisible as possible in your mouth. If you eat with your aligners in, they can become stained and no longer invisible. So make sure to take them out when you eat.
#10 – Wear Your Retainer After Invisalign Treatment!
It is critical to use a retainer as instructed. The retainer holds your teeth in their new positions after your Invisalign treatment is finished. Your teeth will shift back into their previous positions if you don’t use it, which means the investment of money and time will be lost. So, make sure to follow instructions about how long and how often to wear the retainer.
Invisalign and Ortho One Can Help You Achieve a Beautiful Smile
Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners offer a more discreet and treatment method to straighten your teeth. By following the easy tips for Invisalign that we’ve covered above, you can help optimize your success with these aligners and ensure that the process is as smooth as possible.
Millions of people have used Invisalign to create the smile of their dreams! As the premier provider of orthodontic care and Invisalign services in Voorhees, NJ, here at Ortho One we can answer any questions that you may have. We also offer a free consultation to get you started on the process.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
