Invisalign is an effective, convenient treatment that has already helped countless individuals to enjoy straighter, healthier teeth. But success is not guaranteed. In fact, as a patient, you have a responsibility to adhere to certain guidelines. Otherwise, your treatment could easily become derailed. What are the basic do’s and don’ts of Invisalign treatment? This blog post explains.
Do’s of Invisalign Treatment
Here are some best practices for keeping your treatment on track:
- Wear your aligners diligently: Make it a priority to wear your Invisalign aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours each day. Taking them out only for meals and oral hygiene helps your teeth move correctly and keeps your treatment moving forward. If necessary, you can use a reminder app, like TrayMinder, to help you wear your aligners as much as necessary.
- Maintain excellent oral hygiene: Brush your teeth thoroughly after every meal before putting your aligners back in. Flossing regularly is also important because it helps keep your gums healthy and prevents plaque buildup that could interfere with your progress.
- Follow your dental professional’s guidance: Listen carefully to instructions from your orthodontist or dentist. If adjustments or additional accessories are recommended, complying with these directions can make a big difference in the final outcome of your treatment.
- Clean your aligners every day: Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water and gently brush them using a soft toothbrush and a mild cleaning agent. Avoid using toothpaste, which may be abrasive and cause scratches. Many patients choose to use Invisalign cleaning crystals as well.
- Store aligners safely when not in use: Use the provided case to reduce the risk of loss or damage. This simple habit helps you keep track of your aligners and prevents mishaps.
Don’ts of Invisalign Treatment
Here are some habits and activities that should be avoided throughout your time with Invisalign:
- Avoid eating or drinking (except water) while wearing your aligners: Food and beverages can stain or damage your aligners and trap debris against your teeth. Always remove them before consuming anything other than water.
- Do not skip scheduled appointments: Regular visits allow your dental provider to monitor your progress and make necessary changes. Missing appointments can delay your treatment and lead to unexpected complications.
- Do not use Invisalign as a mouthguard: Although Invisalign places a barrier around your teeth, it is not a substitute for a sports mouthguard. If you play sports, you might need to take your aligners out and use a regular mouthguard or explore other orthodontic treatments.
Your time with Invisalign should not be stressful or overwhelming! Once you get into a good routine, you can be confident that your diligence will lead to a straighter, healthier, and more confident smile.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Latner is a highly accomplished dentist with decades of experience in his field. Invisalign is one of the many services that he and our team provide in our Los Angeles practice. If you are interested in straightening your teeth, or you have questions about how to properly use your clear aligners, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact Westside Dental Associates at 310-765-7441.