Invisalign 101: Everything You Need to Know for Success
Wearing Your Aligners
The key to successful Invisalign treatment is wearing your aligners consistently. Aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours a day to achieve the best results. Keep them in at work, school, and during social activities. Only remove your aligners for eating, brushing, and flossing. Change your aligners weekly, unless directed otherwise by the Orthodontic Partners team.
Your Invisalign Appointments
Regular recheck appointments are critical to keeping your Invisalign treatment on track. At Orthodontic Partners, we carefully design the sequence of tooth movements to align your smile. These appointments allow us to monitor progress, ensure your teeth are tracking correctly, and make any necessary adjustments. Missing an appointment could delay your results.
Brushing and Cleaning Your Aligners
For a healthy smile during Invisalign treatment:
- Brush your teeth 3 times a day, ideally after meals.
- If brushing isn’t possible, rinse your mouth with water before replacing your aligners.
- Clean your aligners nightly by brushing or rinsing them to remove debris.
- Continue your regular dental cleanings as recommended.
Eating and Drinking With Aligners
Avoid eating or drinking while wearing aligners to prevent food and liquids from getting trapped against your teeth. A few exceptions include:
- Light snacks or drinks: Rinse with water immediately afterward.
- Coffee: It’s okay to drink with a straw to minimize contact with the aligners.
Managing Discomfort
It’s common to feel slight achiness when starting a new set of aligners, but this is normal. To improve comfort:
- Change to a new aligner set before bedtime.
- Use over-the-counter pain relief like Tylenol or Motrin if needed.
The discomfort is usually minimal since aligners move your teeth gradually.
What to Do If Aligners Break or Get Lost
If you lose or break an aligner, contact Orthodontic Partners immediately. In most cases, we’ll advise you to move forward to the next aligner in your series.
Refinements for the Perfect Finish
At Orthodontic Partners, we are committed to achieving the perfect finish. After completing your initial aligner sets, a refinement scan may be done to create a final set of aligners. These finishing touches ensure your smile and bite are as perfect as possible.
Attachments and Elastics
- Attachments: The small, clear bumps on your teeth help aligners fit tightly for precise tooth movements. If an attachment falls off, contact our office.
- Elastics: Rubber bands may be used with your aligners for certain movements. Follow the instructions provided by your technician, and don’t worry—most patients master the process within a few days.
Using Chewies for Better Fit
Chewies are small rubber bite sticks that help seat your aligners for optimal fit. Use them daily, especially in areas needing extra movement. Bite and hold for 5-second intervals for a few minutes as directed.
Invisalign 101: Stay on Track for a Better Smile
By wearing your aligners consistently, attending regular appointments, and following these care tips, you’ll be on your way to a straighter, healthier smile. Orthodontic Partners is here to guide you through every step of your Invisalign 101 journey—ensuring your treatment is smooth, comfortable, and successful.