The Do’s And Don’ts Of Invisalign

In recent years, Invisalign, a discreet and effective orthodontic treatment, has seen an upsurge in popularity. This innovative solution addresses various dental misalignments and fosters healthier smiles by employing a series of clear aligners. However, understanding and following the dos and don’ts of Invisalign treatment are crucial to reap the maximum benefits and achieve the desired results.

The Do’s of Invisalign

Choose a Certified Invisalign Provider: Your journey toward a perfect smile begins with choosing the right orthodontist. Ensure your provider is certified and experienced in orthodontic treatments, particularly Invisalign. This is a significant step to ensure the best treatment outcomes.

Wear Your Aligners as Instructed: For effective teeth movement, it is imperative to wear your clear aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Aligners are removable, but consistent wear ensures they exert the required pressure on your teeth for successful alignment.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Maintaining oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment is of paramount importance. Brush and floss regularly to prevent dental issues like cavities or gingivitis. Additionally, clean your aligners using a soft-bristle toothbrush and neutral soap to prevent bacterial growth and maintain their clarity.

Use Aligner Chewies: Aligner chewies are small, cylindrical cushions that help ensure your aligners are fitting correctly. Biting down on these chewies helps seat the aligners properly and enhances their effectiveness in shifting teeth.

Follow the Treatment Plan: Your orthodontist will provide a customized treatment plan that best suits your specific requirements. Adhere to this plan, including the sequence and schedule of wearing each set of aligners, to ensure successful progress.

Use Retainers as Directed: Once the treatment is complete, retainers play a critical role in maintaining your new smile. Follow your orthodontist’s instructions on using retainers post-treatment to preserve the alignment results.

The Don’ts of Invisalign

Don’t Forget to Remove Aligners for Eating: It’s crucial to remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Not doing so could damage or stain the aligners.

Avoid Drinking Colored or Sugary Beverages with Aligners: Beverages like coffee, tea, or soda can stain your clear aligners and increase the risk of cavities. Always remove aligners when consuming these drinks.

Don’t Skip Aligner Changes: Change your aligners as per the schedule set by your orthodontist to keep the treatment progressing correctly. Each set of aligners has a specific role in the gradual movement of your teeth.

Avoid Smoking or Chewing Gum with Aligners: Smoking can discolor your aligners while chewing gum can stick to and damage them. Always remove your aligners before engaging in these activities.

Don’t Neglect Dental Checkups: Regular dental checkups during your Invisalign treatment allow your orthodontist to monitor your progress and ensure your oral health and treatment is on track.

Don’t Store Aligners Carelessly: When not in use, store your aligners in a designated case to avoid loss or damage. Exposure to air can dry them out, making them brittle and more prone to cracking.

In conclusion, the key to a successful Invisalign journey lies in the meticulous adherence to these do’s and don’ts. Each step plays a crucial role in shaping your dream smile and ensuring your oral health. However, these are general guidelines, and individual needs may vary. Therefore, consult your Invisalign provider for any specific concerns or questions you may have about your treatment. After all, a well-informed patient is an empowered one. Remember, your smile is your reward for your dedication to this treatment journey.

Contact Woodlawn Orthodontics today for more information on Invisalign!