Many orthodontic patients are eager to improve their smiles as discreetly as possible, which is why so many of them love the option of Invisalign clear aligners. While Invisalign is a convenient teeth-straightening option for many people, there are steps patients should be taking to ensure that their aligners work as effectively as possible. If you’re an Invisalign patient, here are some helpful tips to make sure that you achieve a straighter, healthier smile as quickly as possible.
Follow Your Orthodontist’s Directions
If you want your Invisalign aligners to work, you have to wear them as directed. For most patients, this means wearing them 22 hours a day. It may be convenient to have the option to remove your aligners as needed, but be careful not to make this a habit. If you forget to put them back in or misplace them after eating or cleaning, it could mean longer treatment times.
Keep Your Teeth & Aligners Clean
Failing to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly twice a day could extend your treatment plan time due to oral health issues, such as tooth decay or periodontal disease. It’s important to look after your teeth and gums with extra care while you’re straightening them. Be sure to rinse your aligners with water and brush them every time you brush your teeth. To help them stay clear, avoid eating and drinking anything besides water while they’re in your mouth.
Limit Your Sugar Consumption
Sugary drinks and food are always bad for your teeth, but especially when wearing orthodontic appliances. Instead of snacks and sodas that are high in sugar and difficult to remove from the crevices of your teeth, choose snacking healthier options, such as cheese and nuts, to make sure your teeth stay bright when your time with Invisalign comes to an end.
Your Orthodontist is Your Friend
To help your teeth stay on the right track and ensure you get the smile of your dreams as quickly as possible, don’t skip your orthodontist appointments. It’s important that your orthodontist catch any unexpected problems before they progress and confirm that your teeth are responding well to your treatment plan.
The friendly orthodontic team at Unionville Orthodontics is passionate about helping the families of the Markham, ON area achieve straighter, healthier smiles. Stop by our office or book your appointment today to see how Invisalign could improve your smile quickly and conveniently!
-The Unionville Orthodontics Team