Are you excited about starting Invisalign? You might want to jump to your results, but it will take time to get the straighter smile you deserve. In the meantime, you will have to adjust to your trays and get used to life with them. This can be trouble for some people, but knowing the do’s and don’ts can be helpful. Here are four that you should keep in mind when building your routine.
Do Get the Total Wear Time
One benefit that entices people is that Invisalign is removable. You can take them out while you eat and drink, so you don’t have to change your diet as you would with braces. That said, you shouldn’t have them out for too long. Your trays work by applying a consistent, gentle pressure. You should have them in for 20 to 22 hours a day. Not reaching this can lead to delays, so setting alarms and reminders can be helpful.
Don’t Eat or Drink While Wearing Invisalign
Building off the point above, eating and drinking with your Invisalign can be trouble. Chewing food with them can damage the plastic trays, and beverages can get trapped and cause stains or cavities. The only thing you can have is water, so having a reusable bottle handy can be helpful.
Do Stick to Your Oral Hygiene
Before you put your aligners in after eating, you will need to brush your teeth. Plaque and debris can transfer, leading to oral health issues. Thankfully, your oral hygiene routine can prevent trouble. It might be tough to bump up the frequency of these habits, but it can be well worth it to keep your journey smooth.
Don’t Clean Your Trays with Hot Water
You’ll also need to give your Invisalign a good scrubbing to remove plaque that might already be on them. When you do, don’t use hot water. It can warp the plastic and make them ineffective or dangerous to have in. Lukewarm to cold water is good, and you should use a soft-bristle toothbrush and clear, gentle soap.
While you might struggle building a routine with your orthodontic trays at first, follow the do’s and don’ts above. That way, it’s easier to include them in your lifestyle and get started on your path to a straighter smile without a hitch.
About the Practice
Ready for a healthier bite? Our team at Schumacher Dental is dedicated to helping patients in Wakefield correct misalignment and malocclusion with Invisalign. Led by Dr. Robin Schumacher and Dr. Paul Sim, we stay by your side throughout your journey, so you know how to avoid delays. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at 781-334-3400.