Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment option many like, since the aligners are almost invisible, compared to other teeth straightening devices (metal or ceramic braces for instance).
Back in the day, when I chose this, another advantage was that oral hygiene was easier, since I’d just remove the Invisalign aligners, eat and then floss / brush at will.
Once all this was done, I’d put the aligners back on.
Invisalign works great with simple orthodontic cases, I’d never recommend it to someone who has severe tooth crowding and malposition.
I’m not an orthodontist, so do take my advice with a grain of salt, but I have personally seen the huge difference between wearing Damon and Invisalign.
Let’s say that I’d never rely on Invisalign ever again.
Yet, as I mentioned, it can work beautifully for someone with a simpler case. If you do decide to take on Invisalign, here are some tips to help you out.
How to make the most out of your Invisalign treatment
Wear your retainers as much as possible
Orthodontists agree, your Invisalign aligners should be worn at least 22 hours/day. Don’t wear them only during the night, they are not retainers to be worn after your treatment is done, they need to be placed on your teeth for as much as you possibly can.
Eat, clean your teeth and then put back your Invisalign aligners.
Not wearing your aligners long enough can make your treatment useless or it might take longer than expected.
Invisalign treatment tends to be longer than wearing ‘regular’ braces anyway, make sure you don’t have to wear them for more than needed.
Don’t lose your Invisalign trays
Yes, people tend to lose their Invisaling from time to time.
Don’t be that person, since getting a new set is tricky. In most cases your orthodontist will probably tell you to wear the previous pair and get a new one when time comes.
This doesn’t hinder your treatment too much, but it’s pretty unpleasant to put the new aligners, as they’ll seem to not fit properly.
If you wear your Invisalign as advised, there are less chances to misplace your aligners, since they’d be in your mouth almost all the time.
Go for your regular checkups and Invisalign trays change
Your orthodontist will most likely give you a new Invisalign set every 2 weeks (or whatever pace is considered suitable for your situation).
Do for those checkups and try to keep up with your orthodontic appointments.
Keep your Invisalign clean
You’ll probably have to wear every set of aligners for 2 weeks, keep them clean and stain free.
Every time you brush and floss, make sure you clean your aligners, as advised by your orthodontist, since otherwise they become yucky,
Stay away from Coke, wine and coffee, these can really stain your aligners and make them look bad.
Make sure the aligners are seated fully
When your orthodontist gives you the next set, make sure it fits properly. Your orthodontist might also place attachments on your teeth to speed up treatment.
Do tell your doctor if your trays don’t fit well or there’s anything bruising the inside of your mouth. Ask for dental wax, if needed and don’t leave the orthodontist office until your Invisalign fits in snugly.
Wear your retainers properly
Many people start getting crooked teeth after a while since finishing their orthodontic treatment, because they don’t wear their retainers.
A retainer is an orthodontic device meant to keep your teeth into the proper position, so they they don’t ‘migrate’ back. Your orthodontist will prescribe the best option for you and you should be wearing your retainer for as much as advised.
These are just few tips to make the most out of your Invisalign treatment. Is there anything else you’d add?