It can be difficult to remember all of the treatment guidelines your dentist gave you, especially during your first few weeks of having clear aligners. However, this is also the time when you establish good or bad habits, so it’s of the utmost importance that you keep the do’s and don’ts of Invisalign in mind! Here are a few we recommend.
DO Clean Your Teeth (and Trays!) After Each Meal
Remember, you can still develop cavities and other oral health problems during your Invisalign treatment. That’s why it’s crucial that you continue to care for your teeth and gums every step of the way! In addition to brushing and flossing your teeth, make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to give your aligners a gentle scrub as well.
DON’T Use Harsh Chemicals or Hot Water
Although the patented material that clear aligners are crafted from is durable, it’s not completely indestructible. In fact, a simple mistake like using really hot water to rinse them can cause them to lose their shape, rendering them virtually useless. So, always check the temperature to ensure it’s cool or lukewarm first!
DO Wear Your Aligners for 20-22 Hours a Day
Since the aligners aren’t bonded to your teeth, it’s up to you to wear them for the appropriate amount of time each day. The general guideline that patients are given is 20-22 hours a day. However, the more you wear them, the better!
DON’T Keep Your Trays on While You Drink Coffee
Whether it’s to meet the 20+ hour a day wear time or because it’s convenient, some patients adopt the habit of keeping their aligners in while they drink their morning or afternoon cup of coffee. While this may seem harmless, it’s actually one of the easiest ways to stain your trays and teeth!
DO Prioritize Your Check-In Visits
Even if you have your entire series of aligners, you need to visit your dentist throughout your treatment. There are several reasons for this, starting with the fact that it allows them to monitor the movement of your teeth. If things aren’t going as expected, they can make changes to your treatment plan to help avoid delays.
About the Doctor
In 1977, Dr. Geoffrey Iverson obtained his undergraduate degree at the University of Minnesota. Then, he earned his dental doctorate at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Today, he has several impressive accomplishments under his belt, including that he has been practicing for more than 30 years and he was honored with the Academy of General Dentistry Service Award! If you are interested in learning more about Invisalign – whether it’s to see if you’re a candidate or refresh yourself on the treatment guidelines – you can get in touch with him via his website or by phone at (507) 364-7424.