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8 Invisalign Mistakes to Avoid

Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment option because it is both effective and discreet. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is characterized by a series of removable aligner trays. Below you will find the top 9 Invisalign mistakes to avoid. Below we cover 8 Invisalign mistakes to avoid.

8 Invisalign Mistakes to Avoid

Invisalign is a low-maintenance orthodontic treatment. Consider the following mistakes to avoid during Invisalign treatment.

Not Wearing Your Aligners Long Enough:

Not wearing your aligners for the recommended amount of time is key when it comes to staying on your Invisalign treatment timeline. It is recommended that you wear your aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours each day. The only time your aligners should be out is when you are eating, cleaning your aligners, or are completing your daily oral care routine. If you struggle to keep track of your aligner time, use a timer to track the time you are not wearing your aligners.

Eating Or Drinking With Your Aligners:

A common mistake people make is eating or drinking with their aligners in. The trays are highly susceptible to staining and food particles getting trapped. This is harmful as it can lead to bacterial growth and plaque formation, which can derail your Invisalign treatment timeline. In addition to the harmful effect it can have on your oral health and treatment, it can also stain your aligners. Avoid eating and drinking anything besides lukewarm water with your aligners in.

Failing To Clean Your Aligners:

Avoiding regularly cleaning your aligners is a huge mistake during treatment. Just like your teeth, it is necessary to clean your aligners daily to prevent bacterial growth and discoloration. Clean your aligners in the morning, as bacteria can spread throughout your trays overnight. This can lead to a buildup of harmful bacteria and a foul odor. Clean your trays when you brush your teeth, so you don’t forget.

Failing To Care For Your Aligners:

Not only do you need to regularly clean your aligners, you also need to take good care of them. A huge mistake patients make during treatment is laying their aligners around. If you take your aligners out, the only place they should go is in your aligner case. This can ensure that you don’t lose them and that they do not get lost. Having to replace an aligner during treatment can extend your treatment timeline.

Using The Wrong Cleaning Products:

You should not use the same products on your aligners as you do your teeth. This is because your aligners are made from delicate materials that can be easily damaged by certain oral care products. Talk with your dentist about the products that are right for your aligners. A gentle, fragrance-free soap is a great option to clean your aligners.

Smoking During Aligner Treatment:

Smoking is terrible for your health and can seriously impact your oral health. Also, smoking with your aligners in or during your treatment timeline at all can be extremely harmful. Not only can it increase your risk for oral health issues, but it can also extend your treatment timeline.

Being Impatient With Your Results:

Expecting results right away can be a mistake. While you will notice results in the first few weeks, it is a gradual shift over a period of months. Treatment timelines vary from patient to patient and can take anywhere from 10 to 24 months. Stay on track by following your dentist’s instructions, and you will very likely be able to meet your original treatment timeline.

Not Following Your Dentist’s Advice:

A big mistake during treatment is avoiding your dentist’s advice. A dentist skilled in cosmetic dentistry near you understands your unique dental history, oral health, and how to successfully navigate your treatment process. Follow their instructions and attend all of your appointments during and after treatment.