Family Dentist from Brampton Explains 5 Dos and Don’ts of Invisalign

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment for all ages that uses clear, removable aligners to fix the alignment of teeth and straighten them. They are custom-made using computer-generated images and impressions of your mouth. They are virtually invisible, offering a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces. Unlike conventional braces, Invisalign can be removed for eating, drinking, and oral hygiene, allowing for greater flexibility and comfort. It also offers improved aesthetics due to:

• Its nearly invisible appearance
• Greater comfort without wires or brackets
• The convenience of removal for eating and cleaning
• Easier oral hygiene
• Fewer dietary restrictions
• Potentially shorter treatment times in some cases.

Let’s look at what a family dentist from Brampton suggests doing and avoiding while using Invisalign.

Brampton Family Dentist Advice on How to Properly Use Invisalign

Here are some dos and don’ts to follow while undergoing the Invisalign treatment:

WHAT TO DO

1. Wear Invisalign for 22 Hours a Day: While traditional braces cannot be taken off and are fixed to your teeth with wire, Invisalign can be taken off as and when needed. Yet, the latter produces quicker results in teeth straightening (6-18 months, over the 2 years of braces). However, to get quick results, it is important for you to wear them for a minimum of 22 hours a day.

2. Clean Your Aligners Regularly: To maintain clean aligners, soak them in a cleaning solution daily. You can use denture cleaners or cleaning crystals made by Invisalign to form the cleaning solution. Once the soaking process is complete, use a separate toothbrush from the brush you use for your teeth to scrub away any lingering food debris and bacterial film. After the scrubbing session, give the aligners a thorough rinse with lukewarm water before using them again.



3. Brush Your Teeth Before Putting in the Aligners: Maintaining oral hygiene is important during your Invisalign treatment. Always clean your teeth and gums by brushing and flossing before inserting your aligners. This practice prevents food particles from becoming trapped between your teeth and the aligners, which could lead to plaque buildup and bacterial growth. Neglecting this step may result in dental issues despite the alignment treatment.

4. Snack Carefully: During Invisalign treatment, there's no restriction on food, but it's important to remember that sugary and sticky foods can cause an unpleasant taste in your aligners, making proper cleaning essential. If you prefer eating small meals throughout the day, you'll need to adjust this habit to maintain your aligners' effectiveness, as they need to be worn for 20-22 hours daily. Sugary chewing gums are particularly harmful as they keep your aligners off for longer periods

5. Get Regular Dental Cleaning: Regular dental cleanings are crucial for Invisalign users in Brampton to maintain oral health and prevent issues like cavities and gum disease. Professional cleanings help keep your teeth in good condition, as your dentist or orthodontist will use specialized tools to remove plaque around your braces or aligners and clean your teeth thoroughly. This practice ensures that your dental treatment remains effective and your teeth stay healthy long after the treatment is complete.

WHAT NOT TO DO

1. Leave Your Aligners in Open Air or Near Heat: Avoid leaving your aligners uncovered and without a case, as they can accumulate bacteria and germs. Instead, always store them in their container when not in use. Additionally, be cautious about temperature exposure. Excessive heat can cause your aligners to deform, compromising their fit and potentially affecting your treatment progress.

2. Smoke: Smoking while wearing aligners can lead to rapid discoloration, spoiling their aesthetic appeal. Although removing aligners solely for smoking isn't recommended due to the strict wearing schedule, you might consider aligning smoking breaks with mealtimes or reducing overall tobacco consumption.

3. Use Improper Cleaning Techniques for Invisalign Aligners: Avoid using harsh toothbrushes that may scratch the surface, making the aligners more noticeable. You should also avoid scented cleansers, coloured soaps, or regular toothpaste, as these can leave residue, cause discoloration, or create an unpleasant taste in your aligners.

4. Drink Too Much Coffee: Coffee won’t damage the structure and fit of your aligners; however, drinking too much of it might stain them. This will expose your aligners and defeat the purpose of having clear, almost invisible aligners for aesthetic purposes. Coffee-stained aligners do not look good, and you might want to replace them before it is necessary to do so. It is, instead, advisable to drink one cup a day to avoid staining.

5. Skip Appointments with Your Dentist: Over the course of the treatment, you will need to visit the dentist to track your progress. Skipping these appointments will delay solving issues that might need to be addressed, such as adjusting size and fit or checking for plaque build-up beneath the aligners.

Invisalign offers a convenient and aesthetically pleasing way to achieve a straighter smile. By following these dos and don’ts shared by a family dentist from Brampton, you can maximize the effectiveness of your treatment. Remember to wear your aligners for the recommended duration, maintain good oral hygiene, and avoid habits that can damage your aligners. Regular dental check-ups are also important to ensure your treatment progresses smoothly. Embrace these tips to enjoy your Invisalign experience and achieve the perfect smile. Visit Dentistry on Dusk to learn more about cosmetic dental procedures like tooth crowns, dental bridges, or teeth whitening in Brampton.