Clear, virtually invisible aligners are a great way to straighten your teeth. Especially as an adult, you can probably appreciate the desire to straighten your teeth without wires. For people who are good candidates, Invisalign® is a great way to do this.
There are some things you can do to optimize your Invisalign® treatment. See below to learn more. If you would like to schedule a consultation in the Stapleton-area with experienced orthodontist Dr. Robert Rudman, please call 303-331-0222.
For Everyday Comfort and Convenience
These aligners are removable. That means you’ll be able to eat and drink normally, without any food restrictions, and that you’ll be able to brush and floss normally. Nonetheless, you will be completing orthodontic treatment, so here are some tips for doing so successfully:
Get a portable dental hygiene kit. A foldable or mini toothbrush, travel-size toothpaste and travel-size floss will be a great advantage for your daily routine. When you feel the need to brush or floss before putting your retainers back in after a meal, you’ll have your portable kit ready to go.
Stock up on lip balm! Many people experience dry lips as part of orthodontic treatment. You may be breathing through your mouth more or the plastic trays may reduce the saliva contacting your lips. Purchase a few chap sticks so you can keep one at home, in your car, in your bag and at work or school.
Find a carrying case or pouch you love. It’s really, really important to not lose your aligners. When you are headed to lunch at the office, having a case you can pop your aligners into is essential. You may also want to get a pouch or have a special place you keep the retainer case, so you don’t forget it.
Don’t worry – we’ll provide you with plenty more tips for optimizing your life with Invisalign®.
Sticking to the Plan
- Always wear them for AT LEAST 22 hours per day, and more if possible. This is the biggest responsibility for patients. In order for the aligners to work and to straighten your teeth as planned, they must be worn as close to 24 hours a day as possible. That means removing them only at mealtime or to brush and floss. Generally 22 hours out of 24 is considered the minimum.
- Practice patience as you get used to the feel. When you first start wearing them, you will most likely lisp a little when you speak. Soon, your mouth and mind will grow accustom to the aligners, and you should find they feel almost natural after a few days.
- Get the attachments if recommended. Some people benefit from tiny Invisalign® attachments at some point in their treatment. These tiny, tooth-colored pieces attach to the front surface of your teeth and provide an anchor so that the trays will grip and better move your teeth into the desired position. They are very difficult for people to detect because they are the color of your tooth enamel.
- Clean aligners as instructed. Because the aligners are up against your teeth and gums, you want to keep them as clean as possible so food debris doesn’t get stuck in your teeth. Follow our guidelines for cleaning them and you should be good to go!
- Practice good dental hygiene. It’s important to brush and floss correctly, including when you are wearing orthodontia. Brushing and flossing after meals will not only keep your teeth clean, but will also prevent food from building up and sticking to the trays.
Ask our team for more tips when you visit us for your consultation.
Find Out If You Are a Good Candidate
To find out if our Denver and Stapleton-area Invisalign® treatment is right for you, please call Advanced Orthodontic Care at 303-331-0222. We look forward to arranging your one-on-one appointment with experienced orthodontist Dr. Robert Rudman.
