And keep your treatment on track!
Invisalign aligners are a fantastic way to achieve a straighter smile without the hassle of traditional braces. However, following proper care guidelines and avoiding common mistakes that could set back your progress is essential to get the best results. At Hester and Morris Orthodontics, we want to ensure your Invisalign journey is smooth and successful! Here are three key things to avoid while wearing your aligners:
1. Eating or Drinking (Anything Besides Water) with Your Aligners In
It may be tempting to sneak a quick snack or sip your favorite coffee while wearing your aligners, but doing so can cause serious problems. Food and beverages can stain your aligners, making them more visible, and sugary or acidic drinks can get trapped between the aligners and your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities. Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water, and brush your teeth before putting them back in.
2. Not Wearing Your Aligners Enough
For Invisalign to be effective, you must wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours per day. Basically, we tell our patients to wear their aligners full-time. Failing to wear them consistently can slow your progress or cause your teeth to shift back. Only remove them when eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth, and always place them back in as soon as possible. We recommend setting a timer for about 15 minutes during meal times to keep track. Skipping wear time can extend your treatment or prevent you from achieving your ideal results.
3. Using Hot Water to Clean Your Aligners
While keeping your aligners clean is essential, using hot water to rinse or soak them can warp the plastic, making them less effective. Instead, gently clean your aligners by using lukewarm water and a mild, clear soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals. Brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush can also help remove bacteria and plaque buildup.
Trust Your Smile to the Experts!
Avoiding these common Invisalign mistakes will put you on the right path to a beautiful, healthy smile. At Hester and Morris Orthodontics, we're here to support you every step of the way. Don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need guidance during your treatment! Our website also contains helpful tips and information for your smile journey!
? Ready to transform your smile? Contact us today by visiting www.hmorthodontics.com to schedule your Invisalign consultation!