Maintaining a healthy smile is essential for everyone. However, misaligned teeth can be a significant hindrance to achieving that stunning smile. Thankfully, Invisalign has come to the rescue, offering a comfortable and effective way to straighten teeth without the hassle of traditional metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gently shift teeth into the desired positions.

If you’re considering Invisalign, here are five essential tips to help you get the most out of your treatment and get the straighter smile that you want.

Wear your aligners consistently

One of the most critical aspects of Invisalign or clear braces Clapham treatment is wearing your aligners consistently. Invisalign aligners need to be worn for a minimum of 22 hours a day, and you should only remove them when you eat, brush or floss your teeth. Consistency is key to achieving the desired result within the estimated treatment time. If you fail to wear your aligners consistently, you could prolong your treatment and not achieve the desired result.

Clean your aligners regularly

It is essential to keep your aligners clean to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent bacteria from building up. Clean your aligners daily using a soft-bristled brush and mild soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Do not use hot water or harsh chemicals on your aligners, as this can cause them to warp. Additionally, avoid eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing your aligners, as food particles can get trapped and stain your aligners.

Stick to a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet is crucial during Invisalign treatment. When you wear your aligners, you will need to ensure that you do not eat anything, as this can cause the aligners to become damaged. Also, only wear your aligners when you drink water and remove them for any other drinks, especially ones high in tannins, like teas, coffee and red wine.

While you will be able to brush your teeth with more success when you have aligners in (as they are removable), it is important to note that they are still an orthodontic treatment, so you should seek to minimise consumption of sweet foods, fizzy drinks and just sugar in general. Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to advise you on this.

Keep up with your oral hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment is vital to prevent dental problems such as cavities and gum disease. You should brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before you put your aligners back in your mouth to ensure no food particles are trapped. Use high-fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth and gums. Aim to rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash, too; this will kill any bacteria that may be present, and, of course, don’t forget to floss!

Attend regular check-ups

Regular check-ups with your Invisalign provider are essential to monitor your progress and ensure that your treatment is on track. Your provider may also need to make adjustments to your treatment plan to achieve the desired results. During these appointments, your provider will examine your teeth and aligners to ensure everything is working correctly.

If you’re considering straightening your teeth, invisible aligners might be a great option for you.

They have been used by celebrities around the world, from Justin Bieber to the Prince and Princess of Wales, making them all the more popular with a lot of people who want to get straighter smiles without the potential fuss of using an appliance that must be fixed in place.

So, what do patients need to know if they want to use an invisible aligner? Here’s everything you need to know, so enjoy!

What are they?

First of all, what are invisible aligners, and how do they work? They’re a type of orthodontic treatment that uses clear plastic trays to gradually shift your teeth into place. Unlike traditional braces, aligners like Invisalign London are practically invisible and can be taken out for eating and cleaning.

So, why choose invisible aligners over other types of braces? For one thing, they’re much more discreet. If you’re self-conscious about your smile, you’ll appreciate that they’re virtually invisible. They’re also more comfortable than traditional braces because they don’t use wires or brackets. Plus, you can take them out to eat, meaning you don’t have to give up your favorite foods.

What are the potential complications?

Of course, there are some downsides to invisible aligners as well. For one thing, they’re not as effective as traditional braces for more severe cases. They also require a lot of discipline on your part. You’ll need to wear them for at least 20-22 hours a day, and you’ll need to switch to a new tray every two weeks. If you don’t commit to the process, you may not get the realignment results you were hoping for.

Finding a provider

So, how do you get started with clear aligners? The first step is to find a provider in your area. There are a lot of different companies that offer invisible aligners, so it’s important to do your research and find one that’s right for you. Some popular options include Smile Direct Club and Candid. Once you’ve chosen a provider, you’ll need to schedule an appointment to get started.

The consultation

During your first appointment, you’ll have a consultation with a dentist. They’ll examine your teeth and determine whether invisible aligners are a good option for you. If they are, they’ll take impressions of your teeth and create a treatment plan. This will include a series of trays you must wear over several months. Once you receive your trays, you will have to keep them in your mouth for at least 20-22 hours a day. You’ll also need to switch to a new tray every two weeks. Your provider will monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Treatment length

Invisible aligners, on average, take around 3 to 6 months to straighten the smiles of most people who have mild to moderate misalignment. However, you won’t be left guessing since your dentist will be able to give you a timeline of how long your treatment should take.

Although, if your misalignment issue is a bit more severe, your treatment can take longer, and you should anticipate wearing your aligners for anywhere up to 18 months.