We applaud your decision to straighten your teeth with Invisalign. It's time to get back to work and create a new routine. While this may appear difficult at first, it is doable, particularly with the assistance of our Vancouver dentists' advice on how to keep your Invisalign treatment on track.
Tips for Sticking with Invisalign Treatment
Starting orthodontic treatment with Invisalign clear aligners can feel daunting at first because there are a few things to remember about your treatment plan, and you will need to adjust to wearing your aligners for 22 hours each day. That said, getting used to your new routine will just take some practice and commitment on your part. In this post, our Vancouver dentists share some tips to help make your Invisalign treatment go more smoothly so you get the most value from your investment.
Commit to wearing your Invisalign aligners full-time
Your dedication to treatment will help you lay a solid foundation for future success. You'll need time to adjust to the new changes in your daily routine, just as you do to other good habits. To see the expected results as treatment progresses, you must wear your aligners the majority of the time (and enjoy a straighter smile at the end of treatment). Each aligner should be worn for a two-week period. You may have grown accustomed to wearing them rather than not wearing them at this point.
Wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours per day, taking them out only to eat, drink, and brush your teeth. You should notice the benefits of your diligent compliance with your treatment plan when you switch to new aligners and they fit comfortably on your teeth.
Clean your clear aligners while you eat
You can't wear your aligners while eating. Why not make the most of the time you don't have them in your mouth by soaking them in a cleaning solution while you eat?
Soak them in a denture cleaner, diluted mouthwash, or the special Invisalign cleaning solution for a few minutes (as long as none of these are coloured, as coloured solutions will stain your aligners). This should be done twice a week to keep your clear aligners fresh and clean.
Set a timer
If you're easily distracted or forgetful, setting a timer on your phone can help you remember to replace your aligners. Wearing your aligners for 22 hours a day after eating or brushing your teeth will stymie your progress toward straighter teeth.
Setting a timer can help you remember until the habit becomes ingrained, which can be difficult in the first few weeks.
Learn To Talk With Your Aligners In
When you first start your treatment and insert your first aligners, you may notice that you speak with a lisp. That is completely acceptable. After you've adjusted, your speech should return to normal, but in the meantime, keep talking — call a friend, talk to yourself, sing along to your favourite playlist, or practice reading aloud.