Invisalign comes with many freedoms and advantages over traditional braces. For instance, you’re able to eat whatever you like during treatment; however, these clear aligners still come with some vital instructions—some dos and don’ts you must follow. What are they? Keep reading to find out!
DO during Invisalign Treatment
- Wear the aligners for at least 20 hours daily.
The concept is simple: if you don’t wear the aligners enough, your teeth won’t shift. You need to have the trays in your mouth for 20 hours every day at minimum, or your treatment plan will be drastically delayed, increasing your cost and timeline. Be sure you follow your dentist’s instructions for wear and care.
- Clean the aligners every day.
Being so close to your teeth for 20 to 22 hours every day, your aligners need to be clean. Otherwise, bacteria could cloud the aligners and infect your teeth or gums, potentially causing pain or issues that could delay reaching your goal. Using a soft toothbrush (not the one you use for your teeth), you can gently scrub your aligners in lukewarm water to keep them clean and perfectly clear.
- Clean your teeth after eating and at the end of every day.
Oral hygiene is always important, but it becomes even more essential with aligners. Instead of trapping bits of food and plaque with the aligners and having a higher risk of decay, brushing and flossing your teeth after eating will keep your teeth better protected.
DON’T Do during Invisalign Treatment
- Eat with your aligners in.
Your aligners are made of strong plastic, but they are not designed to withstand the force of biting and grinding up food. In other words, they could become scratched, discolored, or damaged if you eat with them in your mouth. When you take them out, make sure you put them in the case for safekeeping.
- Drink anything but water with your aligners in.
Although it requires an extra step of taking your aligners out, drinking coffee, soda, or anything else with them in is a bad idea. Even clear beverages can discolor the clear aligners. Plus, if you are having hot chocolate or coffee could warp the plastic, derailing your treatment plan. It’s safer to remove the aligners if you drink something other than water.
Compared to metal brackets and wires, Invisalign is a remarkably convenient and easy treatment to do. If you want to finish Invisalign as quickly as possible and with a perfectly aligned smile, you just need to follow your dentist’s instructions of what you should and shouldn’t do.
About the Practice
Williamsburg Dental has six practices throughout Lincoln, which means it’s convenient to access for patients anywhere in the area. All ages are welcome, and we are in-network with most PPO dental insurance plans, which could save you significantly on your Invisalign treatment. If you would like to learn more about Invisalign, reach out to your nearest office online here. We’ll schedule a consultation, answer any questions, and discuss the details of your case with you.