Invisalign clear braces are removable, comfortable, and well known for the freedoms they allow you to enjoy while getting a straighter smile. You can continue to enjoy your favorite foods, sports, and activities with a confident smile thanks to these nearly invisible aligners. However, that doesn’t mean you can pop them in and forget about them completely! Here are the five most important things not to do when straightening your teeth with Invisalign in Mesquite.
Don’t Wear Them for Less Than 22 Hours a Day
Invisalign aligners can only straighten your teeth if you wear them! They need to be worn for at least 22 hours every day for the best results. Any less time than that can significantly slow down your progress and increase your treatment timeline.
Don’t Avoid Taking Them Out
One of the best benefits of Invisalign aligners is that they are removable, so don’t forget to take advantage of that! Eating or drinking while wearing your aligners can quickly scratch, break, or wear them down. Also, avoid drinking anything besides water while wearing them to prevent staining.
Don’t Handle Your Aligners Carelessly
It will take a few days to get used to wearing your aligners. As you adjust, be sure to leave them alone and avoid playing with them to prevent injuring your tongue or damaging your aligners. Once you’ve become accustomed to wearing your aligners, it’s essential that you don’t forget to handle them with care. Removing or replacing them haphazardly can quickly and suddenly break them.
Don’t Forget to Brush
Regular toothbrushing plays an essential role in keeping your mouth healthy and your aligners in great shape throughout your treatment. Twice a day, you should brush your teeth for at least two minutes and thoroughly clean your aligners. Additionally, do your best to give your teeth a quick brush after every meal and snack to prevent trapping food particles, plaque, and bacteria against your teeth.
Don’t Rush Your Treatment
As excited as you may be to get the straighter smile you’ve always wanted, it’s important to remember that orthodontic treatment cannot be rushed. For effective, long-lasting results, your teeth need to be slowly and gently guided into position. Moving them too suddenly or drastically can cause tooth reabsorption, permanent damage, and additional dental treatment.
Even though Invisalign aligners boast a long list of freedoms, it’s essential to keep in mind their limitations. However, if you follow the easy “do’s” and “don’ts” of Invisalign, you’ll be enjoying a straighter, healthier smile in no time!
About the Practice
At Texas Dentistry in Mesquite, TX, we are proud to showcase the talents of several highly experienced dental professionals. Dr. Victoria DeLeon is a graduate of Texas A&M University College of Dentistry, where she is also a post-baccalaureate fellow. Additionally, she has completed numerous hours of continuing education and is certified in Invisalign clear braces treatment. As an active member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry, she stays current with all the latest advancements in dental technology and techniques. If you’d like to learn more about Invisalign clear braces or how to care for them, she can be reached via her website or at (972) 329-4200.