The days of “brace face” and “metal mouth” are no longer the only option for people who want straight teeth. More adults are pursuing a straight smile now that they can take advantage of Invisalign clear aligners. As you consider whether it’s your time to get on the path to a straight smile, get to know more about Invisalign braces.
1. Be ready to commit.
Being wishy-washy isn’t an option for Invisalign wearers. Aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, so that means no accidentally leaving them at home while you’re at work or school. That means you must wear them to bed. That means the only time you’re allowed to have the aligners out of your mouth is when you’re eating a meal or brushing your teeth.
2. Understand how the aligners work.
Invisalign aligners move a few teeth at a time and in an order that your Johns Creek Invisalign provider has predetermined. If you don’t wear a set of aligners long enough, or if you skip days of wear, your treatment time will be set back. And your dentist will be able to tell – you can’t get away with being a poor Invisalign patient.
3. Clean the aligners.
Clear aligners stay clear when they’re taken care of. Even though each set of aligners is only worn for about two weeks, that’s enough time for them to become discolored and odorous without the proper care. Use a soft-bristle brush to keep them clean, but don’t use toothpaste. You will also want to soak the aligners in a cleaning solution recommended by your Duluth Invisalign provider.
4. Watch how you eat.
With Invisalign you don’t have to be careful about what you eat. You can indulge in any and every crunchy and chewy food – if you’ve removed Invisalign first. Eating while you’re wearing Invisalign can break the aligners. And drinking any beverages but water could stain the aligners. Some people find themselves losing a few pounds because they must decide whether it’s worth it to take out their Invisalign for every little snack or drink.
5. Clean your teeth.
Keeping Invisalign clean is important, but it’s essential to keep your teeth clean too. After all, Invisalign is designed to fit snugly on your teeth for hours at a time. If any bacteria or food particles get trapped in between, you’re on your way to tooth decay. So always rinse your mouth and your aligners when you take them out and before you put them back in. And brush and floss your teeth every day to keep them healthy.
6. See your dentist.
One of the nicest perks of Invisalign is that you’re sent home with several weeks worth of aligners so that you can manage your treatment on your own most of the time. You will need to see your Alpharetta dentist regularly, but the appointments are usually every six weeks. That’s far less than wearers of traditional braces must see their dentist. It’s important to check in to make sure your treatment is progressing as it should, and to pick up your next sets of customized clear aligners.
Think you’re ready for Invisalign? Do you just want to learn more about what’s possible for you? Are you interested in other orthodontic options? Contact Dr. Mitul Patel, Johns Creek Invisalign provider, to schedule your consultation.
