Invisalign aligners are a discreet and effective way to straighten your teeth without brackets or wires. However, to keep your treatment on track, it’s important to follow specific guidelines. Small missteps can delay your progress, add unnecessary costs, and impact your results.
Here are some Invisalign do’s and don’ts to help you achieve a straighter smile efficiently.
Do: Wear Your Aligners as Directed
Your aligners need to be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours each day to move your teeth properly. Remove them only when eating, drinking anything besides water, and when brushing and flossing. Skipping wear time can extend your treatment schedule and affect your results.
Don’t: Eat or Drink with Aligners In
Eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing Invisalign can damage your trays and trap food particles, leading to staining and bacterial buildup. Always remove your aligners before meals or snacks, and rinse your mouth before putting them back in.
Do: Clean Your Aligners Daily
Keeping your aligners clean helps prevent discoloration and odor while protecting your oral health. Rinse them each time you remove them, and gently brush them with a soft toothbrush using clear, unscented soap. Specialized Invisalign cleaning crystals can also be used for deeper cleaning.
Don’t: Use Hot Water to Clean Aligners
Hot water can warp the plastic of your aligners, causing them to lose their shape and effectiveness. Always use lukewarm or cool water when rinsing or cleaning your trays.
Do: Store Aligners in Their Case
When you take your aligners out to eat or brush, place them in their protective case. Leaving them out in the open can expose them to bacteria, increase the risk of loss, or even invite curious pets to chew on them.
Don’t: Skip Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential during Invisalign treatment to prevent cavities and staining. Brush and floss after every meal before putting your aligners back in to keep your teeth and trays clean throughout treatment.
Do: Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Every Invisalign treatment plan is unique. Always follow your dentist’s instructions on when to change to a new set of aligners and attend all scheduled checkups to ensure your progress stays on track. If you need more details on what Invisalign treatment involves, you can find helpful information here.
By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you can keep your Invisalign treatment on schedule and your smile healthy during your journey.
Your commitment to wearing and caring for your aligners will help ensure a successful, beautiful result.
About the Practice
Premier Dentistry of the Palm Beaches offers comprehensive dental care in a welcoming environment, including Invisalign treatment to help patients achieve straighter smiles comfortably. The practice is led by Dr. Shevy, who is dedicated to helping patients maintain optimal oral health while providing modern solutions for cosmetic and orthodontic needs.
Call us at (561) 686-2077 or request an appointment online.