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.
