Many more people are choosing to straighten their teeth because of Invisalign finally. These clear braces are virtually unnoticeable, unlike traditional metal braces. Invisalign works by using a custom-made plastic tray on your teeth for 22 hours a day. Your teeth are uncovered for the remaining two to four hours for eating and oral cleaning. Each tray is designed to apply pressure on your teeth to shift their positions. Trays are replaced every two to three weeks until the desired positions are achieved. While using this treatment, there are some things you should keep in mind.

Wear Invisalign Trays as Needed

If you do not wear your Invisalign trays for the recommended length of time each day, it will feel more uncomfortable to put them back on. It will also take longer for the treatment to work and you might not get the results you wanted if you are inconsistent with wearing the trays.

Cleaning Your Liners Daily

To ensure your mouth stays healthy, you should wash your trays throughout the day. It is easier for your teeth to decay if you do not clean your aligners properly. Food, bacteria, and plaque can easily stain your teeth if your trays are dirty. This can lead to bad breath, sore and bleeding gums, and a sore throat. You can use mouthwash to help you clean your trays as it will stain any buildup or residue left on it.

Be Diligent About Oral Care

Because your Invisalign trays will prevent saliva from coating your teeth, you are at higher risk of developing cavities. That is why you must make sure you stick to a strict oral care routine. Or, you may end up with a mouth full of straight teeth that are riddled with cavities.

Clean After Each Meal

Limiting your food intake to three meals a day will make it easier to ensure your teeth and trays are cleaned after each meal. It is so imperative that you do clean your teeth and your trays before put them back in your mouth. If you do not, then you increase the risk of tooth decay. While your teeth are being adjusted, your bite will likely not line up correctly. This is normal, and you may have to chew more carefully and slowly while you get used to your bite.

Stick to Water

It is the only liquid you can consume while you are wearing your Invisalign trays. Other beverages usually have acids and sugar that can break down the material or stain it. If you drink something with sugar or acids in it, be sure to clean your teeth before putting your trays back.

Recognize Bad Habits

It can feel awkward wearing Invisalign braces for the first little while. You might have the urge to chew your trays or clench and grind your jaw. These habits can cause damage to your trays and hinder your teeth’s ability to shift to the right positions. Pay attention to any oral fixation you develop and stop it before it becomes a damaging habit. Soon enough, you will not notice the trays in your mouth.

To see if Invisalign is right for you, contact Lumina Dental. Our experienced and knowledgeable staff would be happy to answer any questions you have.