Many people choose Invisalign to fix crooked or gapped smiles because it’s almost invisible and removable. It slowly moves your teeth into a better position over time. Even though you can take out the aligners, they should be worn for 20-22 hours a day to work well. If you’re struggling to wear your aligners for long enough each day, here are five tips to help you.
Tip #1: Time Your Meals
Eating can make it hard to wear Invisalign for the recommended 20-22 hours a day. Planning meal times can help. Give yourself 15 minutes for breakfast, 30 minutes for lunch, and an hour for dinner. This gives you time for snacks or coffee breaks and lets you brush and floss before putting your aligners back in.
Tip #2: Use a Tracker
Consider using apps like “Tray Minder” designed to help track your Invisalign wear time. This app can help you know if you’ve worn your aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours each day, making it easier to keep track.
Tip #3: Multitask
Clean your aligner trays daily to prevent damage or staining. While you eat, soak your Invisalign in a glass of cold or lukewarm water with cleaning crystals. You can also use a solution made for Invisalign, dentures, or retainers.
Tip #4: Brush, Floss, and Rinse
After eating, make sure to brush, floss, and rinse with mouthwash. This helps prevent staining and keeps food from getting stuck behind your aligners, reducing the risk of cavities.
Tip #5: Switch to New Trays Before Bed
The first few hours with new aligner trays can be uncomfortable. Try putting in new trays before bedtime to sleep through the initial discomfort. If needed, you can take pain relievers or sleep medicine to help you make it through the night.
Remember, wearing Invisalign requires commitment and consistency, but the results can be well worth the effort. By following these tips and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can stay on track with your treatment and achieve the smile you’ve always wanted!
About the Practice
Residents of Huntington as well as the nearby areas trust Huntington Orthodontics for top-notch dental health care. Under the leadership of Dr. Justyna Balicka, they offer their patients a range of effective treatments, including Invisalign for straightening teeth. The team can also provide advice to help you wear your Invisalign aligners as needed. If you’re interested in making an appointment or learning more about Invisalign, you can visit their website or call them at (631) 759-8834.