Caring for Your Aligners

Are you considering Invisalign treatment to achieve the smile of your dreams? Or maybe you've already started your Invisalign journey and want to ensure you're taking the right steps for success. Either way, you've come to the right place! In this blog post, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to caring for your aligners and maximizing the effectiveness of your treatment.

Wearing Aligners:

One of the key aspects of Invisalign treatment is consistent wear of your aligners. Aim to wear them for 20-22 hours a day, removing them only for eating and brushing. Remember, your aligners can only work their magic when they're in your mouth, so be sure to adhere to this schedule.

Putting on and taking off your aligners may seem straightforward, but there are some important steps to follow. When putting them on, align them with your front teeth and gently press them into place. To remove them, use your fingertips on the inside of your molars or utilize the aligner removal tool provided.

Your aligners are numbered for a reason – to ensure you wear them in the correct sequence. It's essential not to skip trays or revert to earlier ones, as this can disrupt the alignment process and delay your progress.

Aligner Fit:

Each aligner should fit snugly over your teeth with no visible gaps or rocking. Before moving on to the next tray, make sure the current one has fully adapted to your teeth.

Chewies are small cylindrical foam-like devices used to help seat aligners more securely over the teeth. They are typically made of a soft, flexible material and are designed to be bitten down on to help ensure that the aligners fit snugly against the teeth, promoting optimal tooth movement. Chewies are often provided by orthodontists as part of the Invisalign treatment kit and are recommended for use to enhance the effectiveness of the aligners.

Attachments:

Attachments are small, tooth-colored bumps or shapes made of dental bonding material that are strategically placed on certain teeth. These attachments serve as anchors for the aligner trays, helping to exert precise and controlled forces to guide the teeth into their desired positions. Attachments play a crucial role in facilitating predictable tooth movements. If one falls off, notify your orthodontist for replacement.

Using Elastics:

In some cases, elastics may be necessary to achieve certain tooth movements. If instructed to use them, be sure to follow your orthodontist's guidance carefully.

Cleaning Routine:

Maintaining proper hygiene is key during Invisalign treatment. Clean your aligners daily with cool water and regular toothpaste, or use dental appliance cleaning tablets for added freshness.

Stick to drinking only cool water while wearing your aligners. Avoid consuming any food or beverages that could stain or damage them.

Lost Aligners: 

When you're not wearing your aligners, be sure to store them in their case. This will prevent breakage or loss, ensuring your treatment stays on track.

If you happen to lose or break an aligner, don't panic. Contact your orthodontist for specific instructions on your next steps. 

Follow-up:

Regular appointments with your orthodontist are essential for tracking progress and adjusting your treatment plan as needed. Be sure to keep these appointments to ensure optimal results. It's always a good idea to hold on to your previous sets of aligners as a backup. You never know when you might need them, especially if you happen to lose or break a tray.

By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be well on your way to achieving the smile you've always wanted with Invisalign. Remember, consistency and proper care are key to successful treatment. If you have any questions or concerns along the way, don't hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist for assistance. Here's to a happy and healthy smile journey!