Tips to get you Through Invisalign Treatment

By: Jessica Stack | Tuesday, March 15th, 2016 | Invisalign

Tuesday, March 15th, 2016

Invisalign is an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces, and we are happy to be a Premier Provider to patients in the Northern Virginia area. If you are considering this innovative system to get your dream smile, you can benefit from these tips for maximizing your treatment.

• Remember to floss. Brushing is a given, but many people forget to floss. This is an important step to maintain healthy teeth and gums due to the full coverage of Invisalign aligners.
• Commit to the recommended wear. With braces, you have no choice but to comply with your dentist’s treatment plan. Invisalign gives you the freedom to remove aligners. However, the intent is for aligners to be worn 22 hours a day or more, removed only for meals and oral hygiene.
• Stick to the plan. Teeth are straightened through a series of aligners. It is up to you to progress through the series on your own. Aligners should be worn for two weeks and then switched to the next set. Do not lag in switching, and do not bypass any set in the series; this will alter your entire treatment plan.
• Get used to the awkwardness. Because aligners are not designed to fit your teeth as they are, but to move them to proper position, they will most likely feel a bit awkward, at least for a day or two until your teeth begin to move. Trust that you will get used to it and that it will pass. Do not remove aligners to improve comfort.
• More awkwardness. In addition to feeling slightly “off,” aligners may just cause you to develop a temporary lisp. The more you adapt to your aligners, the less you will notice this.
• Give your aligners the care they need. It is not only important that you brush and floss your teeth, but also that you give your aligners proper care. Antibacterial soap may be applied to aligners but they should not be brushed. Just rinse the soap off with cool water. Toothpaste should not be used on aligners; it can cause abrasions that harbor bacteria.
• Accept the retainer. Invisalign treatment is just the first step in gaining a healthier, more attractive smile. After your course of treatment, you will need to wear a retainer to prevent orthodontic relapse.

Invisalign has simplified the orthodontic process for many people. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Price.