Caring For Your Aligners
Smiles In Progress
Your Aligners Are On! Now What?
We’re excited to accompany you on your journey to a healthier, more confident smile. This page is your comprehensive guide to caring for your Invisalign aligners, maintaining excellent oral hygiene during treatment, and making the most out of your Invisalign journey. If you ever have any questions about your Invisalign or treatment process, just reach out to us. We’re here to help!
Wearing Your Aligners
When placing your aligner, start with your front teeth and then proceed to fit it over your back teeth. To remove the aligner, gently unhook one side at a time to prevent damage. Remember, if an aligner gets damaged or broken, you should revert to wearing the previous tray and contact our office immediately.
Here are some general guidelines for wearing your aligners:
- Aligners must be worn for at least 20-22 hours per day, and are only to be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing your teeth.
- Use the bite stick to set the trays for the first few days of a new tray. This will help “snap” the aligner into place.
- Drink only water with your Invisalign trays in. Eating, drinking colored beverages, or smoking with your aligners in can cause them to discolor.
- Each tray will be worn for 7 to 10 days based on the treatment plan your doctor has prescribed.
- To make the transition to a new set of aligners easier, we recommend changing to new aligners before bed. This allows your teeth to adjust to the new trays during your sleep.
Here are some general guidelines for wearing your aligners:
- Aligners must be worn for at least 20-22 hours per day, and are only to be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing your teeth.
- Use the bite stick to set the trays for the first few days of a new tray. This will help “snap” the aligner into place.
- Drink only water with your Invisalign trays in. Eating, drinking colored beverages, or smoking with your aligners in can cause them to discolor.
- Each tray will be worn for 7 to 10 days based on the treatment plan your doctor has prescribed.
- To make the transition to a new set of aligners easier, we recommend changing to new aligners before bed. This allows your teeth to adjust to the new trays during your sleep.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene
During your orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene is more important than ever. Always be sure to brush and floss your teeth after every meal and before reinserting your aligners. This will keep your teeth clean and healthy, ensuring the most effective treatment.
It’s also important to gently brush your aligners with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water daily to prevent buildup and ensure they remain as clear as possible. Do not use hot or boiling water when cleaning your aligners, as this can cause them to warp or lose their shape.
It’s also important to gently brush your aligners with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water daily to prevent buildup and ensure they remain as clear as possible. Do not use hot or boiling water when cleaning your aligners, as this can cause them to warp or lose their shape.
Managing Discomfort
Some soreness and discomfort are to be expected during the realignment process, especially when transitioning to a new set of aligners. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to manage any discomfort. If you experience persistent or severe pain, please contact our office.