Invisalign Post-Insertion Instructions
What to Expect After Receiving Your Invisalign Trays
Invisalign clear aligners are a modern orthodontic system using a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays to gradually move your teeth. Each tray is slightly different from the last, guiding your teeth closer to the desired alignment. Here’s how to care for your aligners and optimize your treatment.
Attachments: What Are They and How Do They Work?
Attachments, also known as “buttons,” are small, tooth-colored resin shapes temporarily bonded to your teeth. They provide grip for the aligners, helping them apply the correct amount of pressure to move your teeth. While it’s rare for an attachment to fall off, contact our office if one does to have it reattached.
How to Properly Insert and Remove Your Invisalign Trays
Inserting Aligners
- Align and Press: Align the tray over your teeth, press gently over your front teeth, and then push down in the back to ensure a snug fit.
- Avoid Biting: Never bite down to force the aligners in, as this can damage the trays.
Removing Aligners
- Use Fingertips or Tool: Use your fingertips to lift the aligners from the inside edge near your molars, then work your way forward.
- Consider a Removal Tool: If you were provided with a removal tool, use it to make the process easier and protect the aligners.
How Long Should You Wear Invisalign Each Day?
For optimal results, wear your aligners 20-22 hours per day, removing them only when eating or brushing your teeth. Consistent wear is key to faster treatment and a successful outcome.
Oral Hygiene Tips for Invisalign Patients
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial with Invisalign to prevent plaque buildup, staining, and decay.
Cleaning Your Aligners
- Rinse and Brush: Rinse your aligners under cold water and use a separate, soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean them.
- Avoid Hot Water: Do not rinse with hot water, as this can warp the aligners.
- Use Ultrasonic Cleaner: For a deep clean, consider using an ultrasonic cleaner with a denture-cleaning solution.
Oral Hygiene
- Brush After Meals: Whenever possible, brush your teeth after eating to prevent food particles from being trapped under your aligners.
- Use Mouthwash or Rinse: When brushing isn’t possible, rinse with water or mouthwash.
- Consider Upgrading to an Electric Toothbrush: Electric toothbrushes, such as the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100, provide a more thorough clean.
- Floss Daily: Use regular floss, floss picks, or interdental brushes daily to remove plaque.
- Use a Water Flosser: A Waterpik can effectively remove debris between teeth, which is especially helpful with Invisalign.
Diet and Aligner Care
Aligners are designed to be removed when eating or drinking anything other than water.
- Avoid Sugary or Acidic Beverages: Drinks can get trapped under aligners, potentially causing decay.
- Limit Colored Beverages: Dark-colored drinks can stain the aligners. Always rinse your mouth or brush before reinserting them.
- Store Aligners Properly: Always place aligners in their case when not in use to prevent loss or damage.
Monitoring and Maintaining Aligner Tracking
“Tracking” refers to how well your teeth fit into the aligners. Proper tracking ensures your teeth are moving as planned.
- Check for Fit: Ensure there is no air space between the edges of your teeth and the aligner.
- Delay Changes if Necessary: If the aligner doesn’t fit properly after the prescribed time, wear it longer and call us if issues persist.
- Retain Previous Trays: Always keep your previous set as a backup.
Changing to New Trays
Typically, you’ll switch to a new aligner every 1-2 weeks, depending on your dentist’s instructions.
- Follow the Schedule: Change aligners on the same day each week for consistency.
- Adjust for Tracking Issues: If tracking is off, wear the current aligner longer until it fits properly.
What to Do if You Lose an Aligner
If you lose an aligner:
- Move to the Next Aligner: If you’re close to the end of the current aligner period, start the next one but wear it slightly longer.
- Revert to the Previous Set: If no new aligners are available, wear the previous set and contact our office for assistance.
Have Questions?
Your Invisalign journey to a beautiful smile starts here! If you have additional questions about aligner care or if you’re interested in starting treatment, contact us at Atlas Dental. We’re here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
