In the past, straightening the teeth means wearing metal brackets and wires. Aside from being unsightly, the traditional orthodontic appliance is also uncomfortable to wear. Fortunately, there are now several teeth straightening options to choose from. One of the most popular choices for both teens and adults is Invisalign. This particular approach makes use of clear thermoplastic materials to offer better comfort and aesthetics without compromising the results.
More and more people are availing of Invisalign nowadays since it aims to give patients the kind of smile they have always dreamed of—minus the hassles associated with the traditional treatment. At Horizon West Dentistry, we are not only happy to provide our patients with the orthodontic appliance, but we also help them achieve the best possible results by providing some tips! Continue reading below.
Never leave the aligners out in the open
It is not ideal to leave the Invisalign trays out when not worn since doing so can lead to the accumulation of more bacteria. Besides, it makes it more likely for the appliance to become lost. The best thing to do is to keep the aligners inside their cases. Make sure to carry the aligner case at all times to avoid compromising or losing the aligner trays.
Wear the Invisalign aligners
Although it is evident that patients should wear their orthodontic appliance for it to work, do know that this step is the most crucial. Invisalign trays are removable, but dentists only recommend patients to take them out when eating or cleaning. To get the results they desire, it is highly advised to wear Invisalign trays for 20 to 22 hours every day.
Do no use toothpaste
This particular oral product may be necessary for the teeth; however, its abrasiveness can damage and even discolor the trays. Toothpaste may also cause the aligner trays to lose its luster; therefore, making it more noticeable. As an alternative, patients can use gentle soap but not those that are colored or scented.
Practice with the aligner on
Just like any other type of oral appliance, wearing Invisalign for the first time can cause a person to lisp and have trouble pronouncing certain words. It may appear to other people that the patient is not wearing something in their mouth with Invisalign; however, they may ‘hear’ it once the wearer speaks. For patients to regain their normal speech faster, it is advised for them to practice talking with the aligner on for the mouth muscles to get accustomed to the new addition.
Be serious about proper oral hygiene
Unlike traditional orthodontics, keeping the teeth in shape is way easier with Invisalign. As mentioned above, patients are advised only to remove their trays when eating and cleaning. Due to this, they can easily brush and floss without anything that can get in the way. Make sure to observe proper techniques when cleaning the teeth and Invisalign trays to keep them in shape. When going out, patients are advised to bring a travel-sized toothbrush so they can keep their mouth clean anytime, anywhere.
Always wanted to achieve straighter, healthier teeth? Book your appointment with us at Horizon West Dentistry and take advantage of our Invisalign in Windermere, FL! Call or visit us to experience outstanding dental treatments.