Invisalign offers a discreet way to gently shift and straighten teeth over time.
To maximize Invisalign’s effectiveness and achieve a straighter-looking smile, you should:
- Wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day
- Clean and care for your aligners regularly
- Follow your dentist’s personalized schedule
- Stay committed to the treatment plan
How Does Invisalign Work?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, customized trays (aligners) to apply controlled force and gradually shift your teeth. The aligners help address mild to moderate misalignments like overbites, underbites, gaps, and crowded teeth.
Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, increases the risk of developing dental concerns such as tooth decay and gum disease. In some cases, malocclusion can lead to chipped teeth, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. Orthodontic treatments like Invisalign can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile.
Invisalign treatments begin with a comprehensive consultation, and the number of aligners you require will depend on your dental needs and goals. Your dentist can help determine a personalized treatment plan that details the steps and timeline of your Invisalign treatment.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Invisalign?
Although Invisalign can address a wide range of dental concerns, a proper consultation can determine if it is the appropriate treatment for you. Invisalign may not be able to address severe malocclusion, and your dentist may suggest different treatments to suit your needs.
Ideal candidates typically include people with mild to moderate spacing, gaps, crowding, or bite issues.
How Can I Make My Invisalign More Effective?
Wear Your Aligners as Prescribed
Your dentist may provide you with 3 or 6 aligners at a time, each designed to shift your teeth by approximately 0.3mm. You must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day to give them ample time to straighten your teeth. We recommend wearing your aligners as close to 22 hours a day as possible to yield optimal results.
You should only remove your aligners to:
- Eat and drink
- Clean your teeth
- Clean the aligners
Take Proper Care of Your Aligners
Although your aligners are replaced every 1 to 2 weeks, they still require regular maintenance. Clean your aligners every night around the same time you brush and floss your teeth to remove food buildup and accumulated bacteria throughout the day.
Here is how to take care of your aligners:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, warm water, and antibacterial soap to gently clean your aligners.
- Use mouthwash to help kill bacteria that can lead to plaque and gum disease.
- Avoid using hot water to clean your trays, which may soften the plastic and change their shape.
- Store your Invisalign in their designated case when not in use to prevent exposure to bacteria.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything other than water while wearing your aligners to prevent staining.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay and staining.
Follow Your Dentist’s Treatment Plan Schedule
When your teeth have adjusted to one aligner, it is time to move on to the next one.
Everyone’s situation is different, but your dentist will determine how often you should change trays—typically every 1 to 2 weeks. Forgetting to switch aligners on time can prolong the treatment plan.
You might feel a little pressure when you first put in a new aligner, but this is a good sign—it means your Invisalign is doing its job.
You should also schedule follow-up appointments every 4 to 6 weeks or as your dentist recommends. These progress evaluations help track your treatment and allow us to make necessary adjustments.
Stay Patient & Committed to the Treatment
Invisalign treatment takes time. Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are removable, so it is important to stick to your treatment plan. Your commitment and compliance will help ensure better results.
If you have any questions or encounter any challenges, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Your treatment does not end when you finish wearing your aligners. Customized retainers can help maintain your smile for years to come.
Does Invisalign Keep Teeth Straight Forever?
Invisalign can straighten teeth in 8 to 18 months depending on your case. It is a gradual process, and it is meant to be.
After your treatment, you may stop wearing your aligners. However, just like with metal braces and other orthodontic treatments, your teeth will have the tendency to gradually shift back to their original position, so you will be required retainers to maintain your smile.
Transform Your Smile with Invisalign
Dr. Cooper is a Gold Invisalign Provider, meaning she has extensive experience and knowledge using Invisalign to help her patients straighten their teeth. Contact our team at Cooper Dental today to book an appointment for personalized Invisalign advice. Let us help you achieve that straighter, healthier smile.
