Few people enjoy being told what to do and can actively choose differently, but sometimes instructions are necessary and beneficial. At the beginning of Invisalign treatment, you’re given a list of things you should and shouldn’t do. Following these directions is essential if you want to complete treatment as efficiently and effectively as possible. So, what are the dos and don’ts of Invisalign? Continue reading to find out!
Invisalign Dos
Shifting your teeth where they are supposed to be takes conscious effort and action on your part, but Invisalign makes it simple.
Wear Your Aligners at Least 20 Hours Every Day
The aligners place gentle pressure on your teeth and move them into their optimal positions. However, if you consistently have them out to eat snacks all day or remove them for everyday tasks when you could and should have them in, they won’t have time to make a difference. During your treatment time, you may need to cut back on snacking and drinking beverages other than water to make sure you meet this time requirement, but, surely, you would rather finish treatment than not have the aligners on your teeth for at least 20 out of 24 hours each day.
Brush and Floss Your Teeth After Eating or Drinking (Except Water)
At first, it may seem like a huge headache to brush and floss anywhere anytime you consume anything but water, but if you don’t, you could sabotage your treatment and your teeth overall. Trapped plaque, food particles, and pigmented substances will only increase your chances of discoloration and tooth decay.
Check In with the Dentist Regularly
Although dental visits for Invisalign occur less frequently than those for traditional braces, these are essential appointments. Not only will your dentist make sure you’re on track, but they can also make any adjustments as needed, answer questions, or provide custom advice for more success.
Invisalign Don’ts
Some of the things you should avoid during Invisalign treatment include the following:
- Rinsing your aligners in hot water while cleaning. It can melt or warp the plastic.
- Eating with the aligners in your mouth. Scratches make the aligners more noticeable.
- Putting your aligners anywhere other than their case when they’re not inside your mouth.
- Postponing calling our office if you lose or break an aligner during treatment. Time is precious to get you back on track.
If you defy these directions, you’ll only run into trouble, delays, and problems. By following the dos and don’ts of Invisalign, you can achieve your goal as quickly as possible and have a straight, even smile you may not have thought possible!
About Beach Dental
In addition to Invisalign, Beach Dental offers many advanced services, including dental implants, dentures and other restorations, teeth whitening, emergency care, and sleep apnea treatment. With patients coming from surrounding areas, such as East Moriches, Manorville, Westhampton Beach, East Quogue, and more, we are proud to have changed so many smiles and lives for the better. See your own success story when you work with Dr. Jason Parli and Dr. Alexis Gersten at Beach Dental in Westhampton. To get started, call 631-325-0731 or click on our Contact Us page to schedule an appointment.