Tips for New Invisalign Patients

Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that straighten your teeth. These aligners are removable, so you can take them out while you eat, clean your teeth, or for special occasions. Invisalign is so comfortable you might even forget you’re wearing it! Plus, the aligners are nearly invisible, so most people won’t even notice you’re straightening your teeth. 

So, got your new Invisalign aligners, or are you soon going to get one? Keep reading for some tips that can be helpful for you.

Keep Your Teeth Clean

Your aligners should be cleaned regularly, just like you would clean your retainers. Just use warm, soapy water to rinse your aligners and then gently remove them from your mouth. Brush your teeth as normal. Avoid using toothpaste, mouthwash, or whitening products while wearing the aligners, as they can scratch them.

It’s also a good idea to clean your aligners before placing them back in your mouth. This is because bacteria can grow on aligners, so it’s best to rinse them thoroughly before putting them back.

Eat Healthily

Invisalign aligners are removable, making mealtimes easy. However, certain foods can damage aligners, making them difficult to wear. Avoid the following foods:

• Hard candy (e.g., Jolly Ranchers)
• Sticky foods, including gum and taffy (e.g., Starbursts)
• Hard and chewy foods, such as nuts and beef jerky
• Chocolate and other foods high in sugar
• Chewy foods, such as corn on the cob and gummy fruit snacks

Wear Your Aligners 20-22 Hours a Day

Your aligners are most effective when they’re in the majority of your mouth 20-22 hours a day. Wearing your aligners more can lead to faster results. However, if you don’t wear your aligners enough, you can lengthen your treatment time.

Be sure to wear your aligners as directed. If you don’t wear your aligners enough, your progress might slow down, and your teeth might shift back into their original position.

Don’t Chew Gum

Chewing gum is not advised while wearing Invisalign. The aligners can stick to the gum and make it difficult to remove. Gum can also subtly change the shape of your teeth, which could affect how Invisalign fits.

Don’t Smoke While Using Invisalign

Patients who choose Invisalign should be sure to avoid smoking. Tobacco can stain your teeth, and the chemicals in tobacco and cigarettes can cause your teeth to discolor and stain. 

Invisalign is an innovation of modern technology that has made tooth straightening a better and more aesthetic process. Alta Vista Dental provides all the dental services with the expertise of experienced dentists. Call dentist in Livermore, CA at 925-292-1459 and book your appointment to receive a complete oral checkup.