Invisalign can correct a range of malocclusion issues. And it does so inconspicuously. This allows you to go about your daily business unhindered by worry over how your braces look. Most people won't notice your Invisalign aligners. But during your treatment, your routines and habits will change because of your Invisalign treatment. This is something you should prepare for now.
If you expect to begin Invisalign treatment soon, the following habits and routines will soon become a part of your life.
Wearing Your Aligners for 22 Hours a Day
To get the best out of your Invisalign treatment, you need to wear each aligner for as long as possible, preferably for 22 hours per day. Each aligner moves your teeth a preset distance before you move onto the next aligner. But in order to move your teeth in the predetermined direction, your aligner needs time — and consistent pressure.
So, although you can take your aligners out, get used to keeping them in for at least 22 hours per day. And, if you decide that 22 hours is too much, because of work or social commitments, inform your dentist. You can then work out a more suitable timeline for your treatment.
Taking Your Aligners out to Drink and Eat
Much of the time you spend with your aligners out will be during meals. Since the clear plastic of Invisalign aligners can stain when in contact with food or beverages, it's best to remove them before you eat or drink anything except water. If your aligners stain due to contact with food, they'll become more noticeable.
If you aren't comfortable taking your aligners out at the dinner table, go to the bathroom and remove your aligners there.
Cleaning Your Teeth After Every Meal and Beverage
Another mealtime habit you'll need to take on is cleaning your teeth after each meal. When you eat or drink, food particles stick to your teeth. Some of these food particles contain staining molecules. If you wear an aligner without brushing your teeth after a meal or beverage then the food particles on your teeth will stain your aligner and make it more visible.
After every meal, rinse your mouth out with water and brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This habit will help you to keep your teeth in good shape even after your Invisalign treatment has ended.
Cleaning Your Aligners Throughout the Day
You need to clean your Invisalign aligners too. A good time to clean your aligners is just before you put them back in your mouth, after a meal or drink. And remember to clean them morning and night during your typical oral hygiene routine. If you use toothpaste to clean your Invisalign aligner, try to use non-abrasive toothpaste because this is gentler on the soft plastic.
Speaking Carefully for the First Couple of Weeks
Invisalign, just as with any orthodontic appliance, might also affect your speech. In other words, you may develop a lisp or struggle to pronounce certain letters clearly. But this will only be for a short duration while your tongue and mouth adjust to the aligners. With some practice, you'll be able to overcome any issues you once had with speaking clearly.
Invisalign is a discreet and convenient way to undergo orthodontic treatment. And although you will have to make changes in your life during your treatment, your results will make it all worthwhile. And many of your new habits, such as brushing after meals, will go on to benefit your oral health for years to come.
If you think
Invisalign is the right treatment for you, then get in touch with Michael G. Landy DDS today. Within a year, you could have a beautiful set of straight, white teeth.
