Are you currently wearing Invisalign trays as your orthodontic treatment of choice to align your smile? If so, do you wonder if you’re doing a good job? Do you think you might be undermining the success of treatment by making mistakes here and there? It’s easy to overlook a few mishaps that can result in interrupted treatment. The good news? We are prepared to help, so you can make the most of your Invisalign treatment. Consider some common ways patients accidentally sabotage their Invisalign wear, so you can get back on track toward attaining a straight, beautiful smile.
#1: You’re Not Wearing Trays Often Enough
One of the most important aspects of your Invisalign treatment is keeping your trays in your mouth as consistently as possible. Fortunately, the treatment is designed to allow you to remove the trays when you need to, such as if you are going to eat a meal or brush and floss your smile. To make sure you’re making the most of your orthodontic care, however, it is very important that you remain dedicated to wearing your trays for 20 to 22 hours every single day.
#2: You’re Not Keeping Your Trays Clean
Are you taking your trays out of your mouth to eat a snack and then placing them right back over your teeth? This can cause problems with your oral health, potentially leading to cavities or inflamed gums and gum disease. Simply make sure you brush your smile and rinse your trays after each removal to keep every area of your oral health in good shape.
#3: You’re Leaving Your Trays Behind
Did you take your trays out at a restaurant and remember later that night that you left them? Did you leave your trays at work? If you have not exceeded the 2 to 4 hours you can have your Invisalign treatment trays out of your mouth, this is okay. However, leaving them behind may result in going for a full night without them. Do yourself a big favor and create a system that helps you remember them.