Like most patients, you may be antsy to have a straight, healthy, and beautiful smile. Fortunately, the average treatment timeline with Invisalign is only 12-18 months, and it’s possible for you to get the results you desire even sooner! The key to avoiding frustrating delays is following the guidelines you’re given to a tee. With this in mind, read on to learn five important dos and don’ts with Invisalign.
1. Don’t Rinse Your Aligners with Hot Water
In short, rinsing your aligners with hot water can cause them to warp, leading to them not fitting properly. That’s why it’s so important to check the temperature first. The same is true when you soak your trays in a cleaning solution; make sure the water is cool or room temperature!
2. Do Wear Your Trays for 20+ Hours a Day
In order to stay on-track with your treatment plan, you need to wear your aligners for a minimum of 20 hours a day. While you work to find a routine, use the stopwatch on your phone to track your wear time. It’s also a good idea to get in the habit of only removing your trays when it’s absolutely necessary.
3. Don’t Drink Coffee While Wearing Your Aligners
There’s a common misconception that you can drink iced coffee while wearing your aligners. That’s not the case! Not only will this cause stubborn stains to surface, but it also increases your risk of tooth decay. So, get in the habit of taking them off, rinsing them with water, and putting them in their case first.
4. Do Brush Your Teeth After Each Meal
If you put your aligners on immediately after eating, the residual food particles will get trapped against your teeth, dramatically increasing your chances of developing a cavity. That’s why it’s so important to get in the habit of brushing your teeth after each meal, even if you are at the office or at a restaurant.
5. Don’t Wrap Your Aligners in a Napkin
Wrapping your aligners in a napkin while you eat may be convenient, but it’s also one of the most common ways they get misplaced. So, if you want to avoid treatment plan delays, it’s important to put them in their designated case instead, even if it takes a few extra minutes of your time.
About the Practice
Our top-rated team at Heim & Carroll DMD, LLC is proud to offer several smile-enhancing treatments, including Invisalign! So, if you are interested in leaving crooked or gapped teeth in the past without any metal brackets or wires, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment at our Glastonbury dental office via our website or by phone at (860) 633-2031. With convenient appointment times, affordable payment options, and the latest dental technology, achieving your healthiest, happiest smile has never been easier!
