Invisalign is a fantastic way to straighten your teeth for a picture-perfect smile. With its clear, removable aligners, you can achieve a uniform grin discreetly without the hassle of metal braces. If you’re just starting your Invisalign treatment, knowing the dos and don’ts can help you make your experience smooth and simple. Continue reading to learn how to make the most of your Invisalign treatment.
The DOs of Invisalign
Here are some things you should do when you begin your Invisalign treatment, and all throughout:
- Wear Your Aligners for 20-22 Hours Daily: To see optimal results, it’s important to wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. You should only remove them for eating, drinking (anything other than water), and brushing your teeth. Consistency is key to keeping your treatment on track!
- Brush and Floss Regularly: Excellent oral hygiene is an essential part of your clear aligner treatment. You’ll need to brush and floss after every meal before putting your aligners back in. This helps prevent food particles and bacteria from getting trapped, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: Try to adhere to your dentist’s instructions carefully. They’ll tell you all you need to know about aligner wear, cleaning routines, and any specific care instructions!
- Keep Your Previous Aligners: Always keep your previous set of aligners! If you lose or damage your current set, having the previous one can be a useful temporary backup until you get a replacement.
The DON’Ts
These are some things that are best avoided during your Invisalign treatment:
- Eat or Drink with Your Aligners In: Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water with your aligners in place. Food and drinks can ruin their clarity, and the pressure from chewing can cause them to crack.
- Don’t Use Hot Water to Clean Aligners: Hot water can warp the plastic material of your aligners, altering their fit and effectiveness. Always use lukewarm or cold water for cleaning!
- Don’t Leave Aligners Out in the Open: When not wearing your aligners, store them in their case to keep them safe and clean. Leaving them out increases the risk of losing them or exposing them to harmful bacteria.
- Don’t Ignore Your Diet: Although you can remove your aligners to eat whatever you want, it’s important to keep an eye on your diet. Try to avoid excessive snacking and sugary foods as these can cause cavities or throw your treatment off track.
Following these dos and don’ts can help you get the best results from your Invisalign treatment! Achieving a perfect grin with Invisalign requires dedication and attention to detail. By taking good care of your aligners and your teeth, you’ll be well on your way to a straighter, healthier smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Miguel A. Casañas Jr. and Dr. Bryan Tamburro are passionate dental experts who love getting to know their patients. They understand that every smile is unique, so they put their skills to work creating tailor-made treatment plans to help their patients build their perfect smile. Call (516) 346-5655 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at Meadowbrook Dentistry or visit the website to explore other treatments and services they offer.