While clear aligners offer a simple and discreet method of straightening teeth, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Here, our dentists in Surrey offer some tips and advice to help you make the most of your orthodontic treatment and stay on track with Invisalign.
How to Stick With Your Invisalign Treatment
Starting orthodontic treatment with Invisalign clear aligners can be a little overwhelming in the beginning as you will need to get used to wearing these aligners for 22 hours each day. This will take some effort on your part but it shouldn't take too long to adjust.
By being committed to your treatment you can help ensure a successful treatment. Just like any other good habit, you'll need time to adjust to the new changes in your daily routine. You must wear your aligners the majority of the time to see the expected results as treatment progresses. Each aligner should be worn for at least two weeks. by the time you reach this point you should be used to wearing your aligners and the strange feeling will be a thing of the past.
To have the most success with your treatment, you will need to wear your Invisalign clear aligners for at least 22 hours every day. You should only take them out when necessary, such as when you are eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. You should notice the benefits of your diligent compliance with your Invisalign treatment plan when you switch to new aligners and they fit comfortably on your teeth.
Soak Your Invisalign Clear Aligners While Eating
You will need to remove your aligners during mealtimes. You'll also need to make sure that you clean your teeth and rinse your aligners before putting them back in. Why not make the most of the time you don't have them in your mouth by soaking them in a cleaning solution while you eat?
Soak them for a few minutes in a denture cleaner, diluted mouthwash, or the special Invisalign cleaning solution. At the very least you should do this a few times a week.
Keep a Timer Going Each Time You Take Them Out
Building a new habit can be tough. If this is an issue for you then you could try using a timer for the first little while. If you do not wear your Invisalign clear aligners for at least 22 hours a day it could hinder your progress toward your treatment goals.
Setting a timer can help you remember until the habit becomes ingrained, which can be difficult in the first few weeks.
Practice Speaking With Your Invisalign Clear Aligners In
Speaking may be one of the biggest challenges when you first begin using Invisalign clear aligners. This is to be expected. Your speech should return to normal after you've adjusted, but in the meantime, keep talking – read a book out loud, call up friends and family, or just hold a conversation with yourself.