Invisalign has seen a huge rise in popularity over the last 10 years. A fantastic alternative to traditional dentistry practices such as metal braces, it allows the user a discreet and effective method to achieve the perfect smile. Below are our top 10 Invisalign tips that will maximise your results and make the process seamless.
1. Make them part of your daily routine.
The first of our Invisalign tips centres around the first few weeks of using Invisalign, you may struggle to make them fit into your daily life. While the end result is fantastic it takes some time getting used to, look to make changes that fit around wearing your Invisalign. You may find that changing how and when you eat will help such as avoiding chewing gum or simply drinking through a straw. Rather than grazing or snacking throughout the day eat larger meals at set times. It will minimise the number of times you will need to remove your aligners.
2. Consistency is king.
Forgetting to wear your aligners can be a massive step to overcome. As any changes in your life, it takes some time to get used to, similarly to fitting them into your routine. The more often you wear them the quicker the process is going to be.
Consistency can be achieved by simply setting phone reminders, to begin with. Set reminders to clean, wear and to remember to grab the carry case in the morning. Eventually, these reminders won’t be necessary as your daily routine will become the norm.
3. Wear them for 22 hours a day.
Remembering to have your invisible brace in for 22 hours may seem daunting but the opposite is true. 22 hours is a guide and in reality, they will most likely be in for longer.
Aligners will only need to be removed when cleaning your teeth or the Invisalign themselves in addition to when you consume food or drink besides water. The first few weeks are essential to prevent bad habits. Setting reminders to put your aligners back in after eating is extremely important early on.
For the best results, 22+ hours is recommended.
4. Overcome the first hurdle.
The first few weeks of the Invisalign process is the toughest, it is at this point you may find yourself questioning your decision.
In this period, discomfort and soreness are expected and although painful it’s necessary to the process. Your teeth and gums are becoming familiar with the aligners and your teeth are slowly being pulled into alignment.
Once you’re past the four-week mark, the discomfort and soreness you initially felt will be a thing of the past. You may find when new aligners are fitted there will be some discomfort again. This will be on a far smaller scale than before.
5. Always carry the case.
Having the case on your person, this will ensure they are kept clean and safe when removed for eating and drinking. By storing them in the case it will stop you having to run back to a restaurant when you stored them in a napkin at Sunday lunch.
Chose a brightly coloured case that will be unmissable when leaving. Alternatively, put the case in your bag, just remember to put the brace back in as you leave.
6. Keep your Invisalign clean.
Like your teeth, Invisalign will become discoloured and plaque will build up around the edges if not maintained. Their appearance will become cloudy and for anyone looking for a discrete alternative, they will become more noticeable as they lose clarity.
Cleaning is simple Invisalign offer their own cleaning product and process which takes 15 minutes. Alternatively, antibacterial soap mixed with warm water will achieve similar results. Keep the water warm and avoid hot water as this can lead to aligners softening and warping in shape.
Avoid using toothpaste to clean them, some toothpastes contain abrasive substances which leave the aligners scratched taking away from their clear appearance.
7. Keep your teeth clean.
Oral hygiene is important for everybody but particularly Invisalign users. Invisalign Aligners are tightly fitted to your teeth leading to a breeding ground for any bacteria.
Aim to clean your teeth after every time you eat or drink anything besides water. By doing so you will keep your teeth cavity-free.
Brushing your teeth after eating also helps to prevent discolouration on the aligners themselves too. Simply rest the brace on an Invisalign tray and complete your normal brushing routine.
8. Carry a cleaning kit.
To keep both your teeth and aligners in the best condition carry a cleaning kit on your person. The best cleaning kits should include:
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Mouthwash
- Floss
- Bonjela (many find Bonjela essential at the start it helps to ease soreness and cover cuts)
In a short space of time, it will become part of the “have I got my keys, phone and purse” process when leaving the house.
9. Keep your old aligners.
At times aligners break or go missing. Keeping an old set to hand in these situations can be extremely helpful. Any extended time without an aligner in will lead to increased discomfort after the next fitting.
Having a spare to hand will act as a stop-gap in between and will prevent your teeth from moving out of alignment. Buy a case and put your previous set of aligners in there; keep them clean and stored in an easy to remember place.
10. Use a retainer
The final of our Invisalign tips is once the treatment is finished use a retainer. Teeth are notorious for shifting back out of alignment. A retainer at night will help stop any movement and keep that new smile in check.
Ultimately Invisalign is a decision you need to make with the help of your dentist, they will help you consider all the factors at play. The top ten Invisalign tips will make the following process seamless.
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