Braces and their many variations have rightfully earned their reputation as the workhorse of the orthodontic community, able to treat the most complex of orthodontic issues.
In recent years, however, there has been a growth in the demand for a more discreet option with fewer compromises, especially among patients with less complex needs.
Dr. Szymanowski of Szymanowski Orthodontics knows that while braces are perfect for one patient, they could be less than ideal for another. That is why he is happy to be an Invisalign provider for teens and adults!
Invisalign creates 100% custom-made, removable, clear aligners that straighten teeth in as little as six weeks by applying consistent pressure. As clear aligners grow in popularity, many have begun asking how to get the most out of such a flexible treatment option. Our team at Szymanowski Orthodontics is excited to answer this question! Here, we have compiled our favorite tips for the most effective Invisalign treatment.
Wear Your Aligners.
It is crucial to wear your Invisalign trays for twenty to twenty-two hours daily for the best results. The removability of the aligners offers users zero food restrictions and low maintenance, but neglecting to wear them properly can delay your overall treatment time.
The adjustment period of just starting out or wearing a tighter tray can be difficult, but you have to push through! The more you wear them, the quicker the discomfort will subside.
If you cannot wear your Invisalign aligners because of pain beyond discomfort, please call our office immediately!
Stay on Schedule!
Each clear aligner must be worn for one to two weeks before advancing to the next pair. With Invisalign, you will receive a series of trays at once, so you can easily switch to the next tray at home in seconds.
We know it can be tempting to advance to the next tray a few days early or skip a tray entirely in hopes of speeding up treatment. Unfortunately, any attempts at quickening treatment will only slow it down. Dr. Damon Szymanowski has carefully planned your precise treatment for accurate and efficient results. When you wear the incorrect try for too long, you could alter your teeth’s movement path and trying to force a tray on that does not fit could break the tray. Both scenarios result in adjustments to the treatment plan and prolonging your orthodontic care.
Our team is just as excited to see your new smile as you are, but following your treatment program as prescribed by Dr. Damon is the quickest, safest way to achieve it.
Loss Prevention.
The thin, clear design of the trays makes them comfortable for all-day wear but easy to lose! You might be surprised to find out how many Invisalign trays end up in restaurant trash cans or become your pet’s new chew toy!
To best protect your aligners when you’re not wearing them, put them in your Invisalign carrying case! The case only guards your aligners against germs and physical damage and makes them harder to lose! It is much easier to keep track of the protective carrying case because it is easier to see and transport.
At Szymanowski Orthodontics, we understand that accidents happen! Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you can still lose or damage your trays. That’s why we advise our patients to hold on to their old aligners when they advance to the next one. Wearing the previous aligner while waiting for a new aligner keeps the teeth from backtracking too much! Remember, you don’t want to move to the next tray ahead of schedule without Dr. Damon’s explicit instructions to do so.
If you lose your aligners, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible to keep your treatment on the right track.
Clean Your Invisalign Trays!
It is crucial to clean your Invisalign trays twice a day! Unclean trays can host bacteria and plaque that can cause tooth decay and gum disease that delay treatment. Improperly maintained trays can also develop a foul taste and smell, which is not inviting when it’s time to wear them.
The good news is that Invisalign trays don’t disrupt your oral hygiene routine, and keeping the trays clean is super easy! Just remove the trays to floss and brush like normal to clean the teeth and gums. To clean the trays, gently brush them with lukewarm water and unscented antibacterial soap using a separate toothbrush from the one for your teeth. Allow them to dry before wearing them. And that’s all they need!
Bonus: Toothpaste is often too harsh for clear aligners and can scratch their surface, making them uncomfortable and more visible when worn. If you need a deeper clean, opt for Invisalign Cleaning Crystals instead! Remember to ask Dr. Damon if a product is safe before using it on your Invisalign clear aligners.
Want more Invisalign Information?
At Szymanowski Orthodontics, we don’t take the responsibility of your smile transformation lightly. With an Ivy League-trained orthodontist and a team always aiming for perfection, you can be confident your care is the quality you expect.
To find out if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a free virtual or in-person consultation with our enthusiastic and knowledgeable team! We look forward to starting your orthodontic journey with you.
Posted by
Dr. Szymanowski