Invisalign is an innovative system that can be used to straighten your teeth and correct certain bite problems. Since Invisalign uses clear aligners that are virtually invisible to others, adults and teens can now straighten their teeth discreetly, without drawing any unwanted attention to their smiles.
Caring For Your Teeth During Your Invisalign Treatment
When using Invisalign, it’s important for orthodontic patients to take care of their teeth to prevent decay and to achieve the best possible results. Invisalign aligners should be worn during the day and throughout the night, for a minimum of 20-22 hours a day, to effectively straighten your teeth.
Inserting and Removing Your Aligners
To ensure a proper fit, your aligners should be inserted at the front of your mouth first before gently pressing them onto your back molars. To safely remove your aligners, you’ll want to do the opposite by removing them from the molars first and then from the front of your teeth. Since you’ll likely receive a series of aligners, it’s important to keep them in order. This way, your teeth will be properly straightened and any possible discomfort will be minimized.
Eating & Cleaning Tips
Since Invisalign is removable, you can safely enjoy all of your favorite foods and snacks as usual as long as your aligners are removed beforehand. When your aligners are being worn it’s safe to drink water, but you’ll want to use a straw if you decide to drink any dark liquids.
You should always remove your aligners before eating or chewing gum, since they can become damaged otherwise. After eating, it’s very important to floss and brush your teeth thoroughly to ensure that any food particles are completely removed before your aligners are reinserted. To keep your aligners in great condition, they can be soaked in a denture cleaning solution or brushed gently with your toothbrush and water after you’ve brushed your teeth.
Reducing Discomfort
Some patients may experience minor discomfort when they first start wearing their Invisalign aligners. If you experience any irritation that affects your tongue, lips or cheeks, then a warm saltwater rinse can be used to heal the area and to reduce discomfort. Wax can also be used to minimize irritation, since it creates a safe barrier between your gums and your aligners. If you’re experiencing excessive pressure once they’ve been inserted, repeatedly clench your teeth for 30 to 40 seconds while wearing your aligners to make your mouth feel better.
What To Avoid During Your Invisalign Treatment
To ensure that your Invisalign treatment goes according to plan, it’s crucial for you to take care of your aligners and your teeth, throughout your entire course of treatment. To be sure that your retainers remain in great shape you should always avoid the following situations:
• Never keep your aligners out of your mouth for an extended amount of time, as this could cause your teeth to shift.
• Never place your aligners in your pocket. This could cause them to bend or warp.
• Never leave your plastic aligners in a hot place, such as the car or out in the sun, as this could cause them to warp or melt.
• Never use toothpaste or mouthwash to clean your aligners or they may become permanently damaged.
• Never leave your aligners in a place that your pet can reach or they will likely become their new favorite chew toy.
If you would like to discuss whether you are a candidate for the Invisalign system, please call our office to setup a free consultation.
