Invisalign Do’s and Don’ts

Invisalign® is an increasingly popular treatment due to its efficacy and ease of use. These clear aligners straighten teeth without the need for dietary restrictions, metal brackets, or wires. That said, there are some guidelines to be aware of. Explore what to do and not do during Invisalign treatment.

Do’s of Invisalign

Invisalign treatment is a straightforward process: Patients will wear a series of aligners that slowly shift the teeth into proper alignment. Treatment time depends on the severity of the malocclusion (misaligned teeth) and how consistently the patient follows treatment guidelines. Some examples of these guidelines, or do’s of Invisalign, include the following.

Wear aligners as much as possible

Patients must wear Invisalign for about 22 hours each day for effective and efficient teeth straightening. A good rule of thumb is to put the aligners back in immediately after eating or drinking. Also, try to learn how to speak with the aligners to prevent needing to take them out every time one has a meeting or school presentation. For instance, practice reading aloud to yourself while wearing the aligners.

Store aligners in the provided case

Patients should carry their provided Invisalign cases wherever they go to safely store their aligners. These hard plastic cases protect the aligners from damage when the patient removes them for eating, drinking, or other activities. Because of their size and shape, the cases are also easy to keep track of.

Keep aligners clean and in good condition

Taking good care of Invisalign prevents various issues, such as cracks, from interfering with treatment. Fortunately, Invisalign maintenance is easy. Rinse the aligners under lukewarm water and gently brush them. Always use a soft toothbrush to avoid scratching them. Consider using Invisalign Cleaning Crystals or other specialized cleaning solutions for an easier, more thorough cleaning.

What to avoid with Invisalign

The don’ts of Invisalign are easy to avoid. Here are a few of the most common examples:

Skipping days of Invisalign

The less a patient wears their aligners, the longer it will take to straighten their teeth. It will also be more uncomfortable to move on to the next set of trays because the teeth may not be in the ideal positions. Therefore, try to avoid habits that require removing the aligners frequently or for long periods of time. The most common examples include taking frequent smoke breaks and routinely spending an hour or more drinking coffee or tea.

Boiling them or using harsh cleaning agents

Never boil clear aligners to clean them. It is not even recommended to rinse them with hot water, as this could warp them. Harsh cleaning agents, like mouthwash, can also damage Invisalign.

Hot or acidic drinks

Do not drink hot or acidic beverages while wearing Invisalign. These can warp the aligners or cause them to break down. Always remove the aligners before enjoying these beverages.