Are you considering Invisalign treatment to improve your smile? Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment that can help straighten your teeth and give you a beautiful grin. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable and almost invisible, making them a great choice for people who want to enhance their smile without the hassle of metal braces.
However, like anything in life, getting the best results from Invisalign requires effort and discipline. In this blog post, we’ll show you the top 10 Invisalign hacks that can help you achieve the best results with Invisalign.
From proper care and maintenance of your aligners to tips for improving your oral hygiene, these hacks will make your Invisalign journey easier and more effective.
1. Wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day
One of the most important things to remember when wearing Invisalign aligners is to wear them for at least 22 hours a day — meaning you should only take them out when you eat, brush, or floss.
The more you wear your aligners, the faster and more effective your treatment will be. If you don’t wear your aligners for the recommended time, your teeth may not move as quickly, and your treatment may take longer.
2. Use chewies for seating your aligners
Chewies are small, foam-like cylinders that can help seat your aligners properly. By biting them, you can help your aligners fit more snugly against your teeth, improving their effectiveness.
Chewies are especially helpful in the first few days after you switch to a new set, when they may feel tight or uncomfortable.
3. Keep your aligners clean
To keep your aligners clean, you should:
- Rinse them with water every time you take them out.
- Brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap every day.
- Avoid using hot water, as it can warp your aligners.
Also, try not to eat or drink anything except water while wearing your aligners, as this can stain them and promote bacterial growth.
4. Change your aligners on schedule
Invisalign involves a series of custom-made aligners for your teeth, so you’ll need to switch to a new set every two weeks.
Changing your aligners on schedule is vital because it ensures your teeth are moving as planned. If you don’t change your aligners on time, your treatment may be delayed or less effective.
5. Keep a travel toothbrush and toothpaste with you
To maintain good oral hygiene while wearing Invisalign aligners, you must brush your teeth after every meal or snack — yes, even after a snack.
To make this easier, you should always keep a travel toothbrush and toothpaste with you. This way, you can brush your teeth wherever you are, whether at work, school, or on the go.
6. Use orthodontic wax for discomfort
In the first few days after switching to a new set of aligners, you may experience some discomfort or soreness. To alleviate this, you can use orthodontic wax to cover any areas of your aligners rubbing against your gums or cheeks. This can help reduce irritation and make it easier to wear your aligners.
7. Don’t forget to floss
Flossing is important to maintaining good oral hygiene during your Invisalign treatment. You should floss at least once a day before you brush your teeth. Use a floss threader to guide the floss between your teeth and under the wires of your aligners. This can help remove food particles and prevent cavities and gum disease.
8. Avoid sugary and acidic foods
Sugary and acidic foods can be damaging to your teeth, and they can also promote bacterial growth in your aligners. To keep your teeth healthy and your aligners clean, avoid sugary and acidic foods as much as possible. This includes soda, candy, fruit juice, and citrus fruits.
Instead, focus on eating a balanced diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
9. Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for your overall health as well as your oral health. When you wear Invisalign aligners, we recommend staying hydrated, as this can help prevent dry mouth and promote saliva production. Saliva helps neutralize acids in your mouth and can also help keep your aligners clean.
10. Visit your dentist regularly
Finally, it’s crucial to visit our dentists regularly while you’re undergoing Invisalign treatment. Our dentists can monitor your progress, adjust your treatment plan, and give you good oral hygiene advice. Visiting us regularly ensures that your treatment is on track and you’re getting the best results possible.
Get the best results with our Invisalign treatment!
Invisalign treatment can help you achieve a straighter, more beautiful smile, and with these Invisalign hacks, you can get the most out of your treatment. Remember to wear your aligners as directed, keep them clean, and follow our dentists’ advice for maintaining good oral hygiene.
At Greater Long Island Dental, our team is experienced with Invisalign treatment and can help you achieve the best results possible. We’ll create a customized treatment plan based on your needs and goals.
If you’re ready to start your Invisalign journey, call us at (516) 798-4223 or book an appointment online.