In the world of adult orthodontics, more adults and teenagers than ever before are choosing invisible aligners to correct their smiles. Yet, even though these aligners are often faster, more discrete and more comfortable than regular braces, that does not mean that wearing them in daily life is straightforward. So if you are about to start treatment with invisible aligners or have already done so and are not sure how to maintain them, you will probably be looking for some helpful tips.
So, what are some tips for using Invisalign in Bromley?
Keep them in!
Okay, a bit of a no-brainer, but as these aligners are removable, it can feel tempting to keep them out of your mouth if possible. This is unwise. To get the results you want from the aligner, you need to wear them for a minimum of 22 hours per day so you need to keep them in. Only remove them when you are eating, drinking sugary beverages, brushing your teeth and, of course, attending dental check-ups. If you fail to wear them, you run the risk of slowing your orthodontic treatment or even causing your teeth to revert to their former positions.
Keep them clean
The reason these aligners appeal to so many people is that they are, well, invisible. As such, there are steps you can take to keep them that way. Clean them daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and use toothpaste if needed. Always use cold water, as hot water can cause them to warp and thus become damaged. While it can be tempting to clean your aligners using mouthwashes, try to refrain from doing this. Even clear mouthwashes contain agents that can cause the plastic to discolour.
Keep your appointments
Another benefit of invisible aligners is that you do not need to see your dentist every 4-6 weeks for any tightening or adjustments. However, you will still need to attend appointments every 8-12 weeks so your dentist can evaluate the progress the aligner is making. Please try to keep these appointments, as they offer your dentist a chance at early intervention if there is an issue with the aligner.
Keep using the carriers
Removable aligners are going to come out in your daily life, especially if you are eating at work or are out with friends. While it can be easier to just tuck them away in your pocket, try to store them in the carriers provided because this will ensure that they stay clean, undamaged and intact without accumulating unwanted debris.
Keep them in order
Your clear aligners will come in a set order that you need to wear them in. Once an aligner feels loose, it is time to move onto the next one. Simple! Aim to keep them in order and use them in order; diverting from this can cause issues with the realignment process. If you feel that the aligner you are switching from has not completed its step in the realignment sequence, please talk to your dentist.
