Invisalign Tips and Tricks

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Invisalign is a modern alternative to the traditional braces. It is what it says on the tin: invisible aligners. These custom made aligners fit snugly over the teeth and slowly shift them into place. These aligners get changed every few weeks to a slightly tighter set, which allows the teeth to slowly move into position.

Invisalign can be used for those people with imperfect teeth, such as issues with gaps, minor misalignments or crowding. It is generally seen as a more convenient and aesthetically pleasing alternative to braces.

However, as straightforward as Invisalign may seem, ensuring the best results requires more than just wearing the trays. In this blog, we’ll dive into what Invisalign is, common mistakes people make while using retainers, and key Invisalign tips and tricks to make the most of your treatment.

Who is Invisalign suitable for?

Invisalign is suitable for treating a variety of dental issues, including:

Crowded teeth
Gapped teeth
Overbites
Crossbites

Because Invisalign is clear and removable, it offers a more discreet way to straighten your teeth. However, it requires a high level of personal responsibility to ensure success.

Common mistakes with Invisalign

Common Mistakes When Wearing Invisalign

As easy as Invisalign can be, mistakes along the way can hinder your treatment progress. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Not Wearing the Aligners Long Enough

One of the most crucial factors for successful Invisalign treatment is consistency. Aligners need to be worn for 20 to 22 hours per in order for them to be successful. Whether it’s for social events, meals, or simply because the aligners feel uncomfortable, failing to wear them for the recommended time can extend the length of your treatment or cause your teeth to shift incorrectly.

Tip: Set reminders on your phone to put your aligners back in after meals. Make wearing them part of your daily routine, just like brushing your teeth.

2. Eating or Drinking with Aligners In

While Invisalign is designed to be worn for most of the day, you should always remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. Food and sugary drinks can get trapped between your aligners and teeth, leading to plaque buildup, cavities, and staining of the aligners themselves.

Tip: Carry a case with you at all times to store your aligners safely when you eat. Drinking plenty of water can also help rinse away any food particles before reinserting your trays.

3. Not Cleaning Your Aligners Properly

Cleaning your aligners is just as important as cleaning your teeth. Failing to keep them clean can result in foul smells, discoloration, and bacterial growth. Using toothpaste or abrasive materials to clean them, however, can scratch the plastic, making them more noticeable.

Tip: Use a gentle soap and water or a special Invisalign cleaning solution to clean your trays. Rinse them thoroughly before reinserting them.

4. Skipping Aligners or Moving Too Quickly

You may be tempted to skip ahead to the next set of aligners in the series if your current set feels too comfortable. However, doing so can cause your teeth to shift too quickly, leading to discomfort, improper alignment, and even damage to the roots of your teeth. Invisalign treatment is carefully planned, so it’s important to follow your orthodontist’s guidelines.

Tip: Stick to the treatment schedule provided by your orthodontist. If your current set feels too comfortable, this is a sign that the aligners are working, but resist the temptation to jump ahead.

5. Neglecting Oral Hygiene

Invisalign can make you more aware of your oral hygiene routine since food particles can easily get trapped between your teeth and the aligners. Skipping brushing or flossing before reinserting your trays can lead to a buildup of plaque and bacteria, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.

Tip: Always brush and floss after every meal before reinserting your aligners. Carry a portable toothbrush and floss with you for quick touch-ups during the day.

Invisalign Tips and Tricks

Now that you’re aware of the common mistakes to avoid, here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Invisalign experience.

1. Use “Chewies” for a Better Fit

Chewies are small, rubbery tools that can help seat your aligners better on your teeth. Sometimes, aligners may not fit snugly right away, which can slow down your treatment progress. By biting down on chewies for a few minutes each day, you can ensure your aligners are fitted as closely to your teeth as possible, helping them work more effectively.

2. Track Your Wearing Time

Consistency is key to successful Invisalign treatment. To help stay on track, use an app or set alarms to remind you to wear your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours per day. Apps like My Invisalign can help you track how long you’ve been wearing your trays, when it’s time to change to the next set, and even remind you of your orthodontist appointments.

3. Switch Aligners at Night

When it’s time to switch to a new set of aligners, you may experience some discomfort as your teeth adjust to the new trays. A good way to minimise this discomfort is by switching to the new set at night. This allows you to sleep through the initial pressure and wake up to less pain.

4. Stay Hydrated

Wearing aligners can sometimes cause dry mouth, especially if you’re not drinking enough water throughout the day. Staying hydrated not only helps prevent dry mouth but also flushes out any food particles or bacteria that might get trapped between your aligners and teeth.

5. Keep Your Previous Set of Aligners

While it may be tempting to throw away your old aligners once you switch to a new set, it’s a good idea to keep your previous set as a backup. In case you lose or damage your current aligners, you can use the previous set to maintain your progress while waiting for replacements.

Conclusion

Invisalign offers a fantastic alternative to traditional braces, providing a discreet and comfortable way to straighten your teeth. However, for the best results, it’s essential to wear your aligners consistently, clean them properly, and avoid common mistakes. By following these Invisalign tips and tricks—along with your orthodontist’s instructions—you can ensure a smoother Invisalign experience and achieve the perfect smile you’ve always wanted.

Once treatment is complete, don’t forget the importance of retainers in maintaining your results. Wearing your retainer as directed, keeping it clean, and replacing it when necessary will help keep your teeth in place for years to come.

By staying committed to the process, you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of straighter teeth but also improved oral health and confidence in your smile!

The Harley Street Implant Centre is here to support you on your Invisalign journey. Book an appointment with our specialist now if you are considering Invisalign or you would like to find out more about how to care properly for your aligners.