When you begin Invisalign treatment, those slim plastic trays on your teeth can make you feel a little out of sorts. You’re new to the process, even if you’ve read about it and talked about it and consulted with your Arlington dentist. Truly living with the aligners in your mouth is very different. It helps to know some Invisalign hacks, tips, and shortcuts to help make this process easier to fit into your lifestyle.
1. Switch Trays at Night
Invisalign trays are worn for about two weeks at a time. Your dentist will provide you with several sets of aligners and you will change them out as instructed. When this time comes, the recommendation is that you make the switch at bedtime. You’ll avoid that initial discomfort that arrives with new trays, and because they’re in your mouth for a long stretch uninterrupted they will work even more effectively. Your teeth will adjust to their new positions and the pressure on your smile will be minimized.
2. Invest in a Water Flosser
No matter what kind of orthodontics you invest in, it’s more important than ever to clean your teeth thoroughly. Sometimes, though, your teeth are feeling extra sensitive. Maybe you just switched to a new tray or your teeth are moving significantly and the thought of flossing makes you want to cringe. Enter the water flosser. This handy tool removes food particles, plaque, and bacteria from in between your teeth. When combined with regular daily flossing and thorough, frequent brushing, your teeth will stay super clean.
3. Use a Timer
Most people are already reliant on their phones, so make use of one more tool on that system – the timer. Why? Invisalign must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day. That means you only have about four hours for eating, snacking, and cleaning your aligners and teeth. You might think you can keep track of this kind of time, but sit down to a fun meal with friends and the hours can get away from you. A timer is an Invisalign hack that keeps you on track so you can wholly enjoy each meal and not worry about being in compliance.
4. Rely on Your Case
Every Invisalign and Invisalign Teen patient receives a case to put their aligners in when they’re not in their mouth. Since the trays are worn most of each day, your tray won’t be used often, but when it is needed it’s super important. This slim case easily fits in a purse, bag, or pocket so you aren’t annoyed by an extra item on your person. Most of all, it’s essential to have a place to put your trays when they’re not in your mouth. They shouldn’t go in your pocket where they’ll collect lint and are very likely to be snapped into pieces if you sit down wrong. Wrap your aligners in a napkin and there’s a very good chance you could discard or leave them behind. A case keeps everything safe and secure.
Depend on Your Arlington Dentist
It’s easy to live with Invisalign, and your provider in Arlington, TX, Dr. Alana Macalik, is prepared to help you manage your transition with handy Invisalign hacks. Schedule a consultation to find out if this dental care is right for you.