Thanks to Invisalign, patients no longer have to endure months or years of wearing metal brackets, dealing with dietary restrictions, and scheduling monthly adjustment appointments. That said, there are some treatment guidelines you need to follow, particularly if you want to avoid frustrating delays. With this in mind, keep reading to learn a few important dos and don’ts with Invisalign!
DO Clean Your Aligners Twice a Day
In order to keep your aligners stain and odor-free, you need to clean them consistently. That starts with rinsing them with clean water when you take them out and extends to using a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean them each morning and night. You can also use clear, mild dishwashing liquid to remove saliva, food particles, and other debris from the surface, but don’t use any other household cleaners.
DON’T Drink Coffee With Your Aligners
There’s a popular misconception that you can keep your aligners on while you’re drinking coffee. Unfortunately, doing so can cause stubborn stains to surface while also increasing your risk of tooth decay. To put it simply, taking your trays off before eating or drinking anything other than water is a good habit to adopt, especially if you want to keep your braces clear and your smile healthy.
DO Wear Your Aligners for 20+ Hours a Day
Although no two Invisalign treatments are exactly the same, there are a few things that are universal, including that you need to wear the aligners for a minimum of 20 hours a day, every day. If you don’t, then your chances of falling off-track with your treatment plan skyrocket.
Tip: Not sure if you’re wearing your aligners for the recommended amount of time? Use the stopwatch on your phone as a guide until you find a routine that works for you!
DON’T Skip Your Check-In Visits
Although there aren’t monthly adjustment appointments with Invisalign, there are periodic check-in visits. They typically happen every 6-8 weeks, and they play a crucial role in keeping you on-track with your treatment plan. So, make them a priority!
DO Store Your Aligners Properly
While out at dinner with a friend or grabbing lunch with a client, you might be tempted to wrap your aligners in a napkin. This is one of the most common reasons they get misplaced! To prevent that from happening, put them in their designated storage case instead.
About the Practice
Our team at Framingham Dental Group is here to help our patients achieve their dream smiles. So, if you want to straighten your teeth without the metal, let us know! Our dentists have advanced training in clear aligner treatment, and we welcome flexible financing so you don’t have to stress about the cost. If you’d like to take the next step, then schedule a consultation with us via our website or by phone at (508) 872-0041.
