Get the Most Out of Your Invisalign Treatment with These Tips

Invisalign is an excellent option for individuals who want a straighter smile without wearing cumbersome metal brackets and wires in their mouths. The treatment is less painful, more comfortable, and convenient than traditional braces – the clear aligners make it easy to eat and brush and nearly invisible to others. However, it is still an orthodontic treatment, so there are guidelines to follow to ensure that it goes as planned. Here are a few tips to make sure Invisalign does what it promises.

Keep your mouth extra clean

The aligners and teeth must be kept very clean, or any traces of plaque and bacteria will be held closely against your teeth, increasing your risk for tooth decay. When the aligners are worn, they prevent saliva from washing away the residue as it usually does. This means diligent and thorough brushing. Flossing is strongly recommended even if aligners are not worn, but it becomes more important when going through the Invisalign Laguna Beach.

Wear the aligners for the recommended amount of time

This includes the 20-22 hours you must wear them daily and wearing them as much as possible for the first 48 hours each time a new aligner is worn. Your teeth will need the time to be guided into their new positions, and following this recommendation will help your treatment go more smoothly.

Change your aligners in time and in the right order

Follow the treatment plan created by your orthodontist. If you are advised to change an aligner early, change it. Let it sit if they tell you to wear it for a few more days. Don’t try to make this call yourself, as it could hinder your progress.

The aligners will take time to get used to

Because your teeth are being pushed around, the aligners may feel uncomfortable initially, but don’t give up on the treatment. The more you wear the aligners, the less you’ll notice them. In addition to this, the aligners will affect the way you speak. Again, you’ll get used to them and, with some practice, will be able to talk usually again.

Take advantage of the Invisalign attachments

Attachments called “buttons” are available to help speed up treatment. They help hold a tray in place or move a tooth and can speed up treatment if you’re willing to try them.

Care for your aligners properly

Unique products are available to clean Invisalign trays, but simple warm water and antibacterial soap are sufficient for cleaning them out. Using toothpaste on the aligners is not a good idea, as it could scratch the plastic, creating places for bacteria to live.

Stick to the dietary instructions you receive from your orthodontist

First, drink a lot of water. Your mouth may produce extra saliva because of the new obstruction it feels and could become dehydrated. You will also receive specific instructions on what to eat and avoid with the aligners.

Use a whitening toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste may be more effective during treatment than previous treatment because remnants of the toothpaste are held against the teeth by the aligner, increasing its effectiveness. Hold off on other whitening treatments, however, until treatment is complete.

Use your retainer properly

Many patients who have completed their orthodontic treatment wear their retainer for a short period, then stop or do not wear it. Doing so could cause them to lose some of the progress achieved through the treatment. Wear your retainer for the recommended time to maintain your newly straight smile.