Since it was introduced in 1997, Invisalign has swelled in popularity and is now set to become the most common way to treat dental alignment issues in adults and older teens. Invisalign clear aligners can address issues like crowding, gaps, crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and others without the conspicuous metal parts and frustrating dietary restrictions that come with traditional metal braces. Here’s a brief list of things you can do to be prepared to begin this convenient and life-changing treatment.
Step Up Your Brushing Routine
While everyone should brush at least twice a day, Invisalign patients are required to always brush and floss before putting their aligners back in their mouths. This is to prevent food debris and plaque from being sheltered from your mouth’s natural cleaning process by your clear aligners. Food and plaque caught between the teeth and the aligners can allow bacteria to breed rapidly, leading to unsightly stains and infections that may result in delays in treatment. Getting used to brushing between meals can be a great way to prepare for Invisalign.
Assemble an Oral Hygiene Kit
Invisalign requires patients to brush and floss before reinserting their aligners, so you’ll probably need to get used to practicing oral hygiene away from home. Luckily, it’s easy to put together a travel-sized oral hygiene kit that includes everything you need. Start with a small bag that is easy to clean and fill it with:
- A toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss
- Travel-sized mouthwash
- Any appliances you use to remove or insert your aligners
- Your aligner protector case
- Over-the-counter pain medication if you need help staying comfortable when wearing a new set of aligners
Get Used to Less Snacking
Invisalign clear aligners must be worn for at least twenty hours a day, and patients will ideally only remove them for meals and oral hygiene sessions. It’s important to brush and floss thoroughly before putting your aligners back in, and since you should wait at least thirty minutes before brushing after eating, you aren’t left with much room for removing your aligners for snacks. Getting used to snacking less before starting Invisalign can lead to an easier transition when you begin the treatment.
Invisalign has allowed millions of people to straighten their teeth while enjoying the freedom to eat whatever they want without having to worry about people noticing their orthodontic appliances. Getting on board with smart Invisalign habits early can set you up to achieve the best possible results from the treatment.
About the Practice
Rauchberg Dental Group is the premier provider of oral healthcare in Parsippany. Led by a team of eight skilled dentists, the staff sees to each patient enjoying effective treatments that address their needs. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as Invisalign services. For more tips on preparing for Invisalign, contact the office online or dial (973) 718-9887.