4 Things You’re Doing That Are Damaging Your Invisalign

According to AAO, adults account for one in every five orthodontic patients, and many patients wear Invisalign. However, it’s important to make sure that you’re taking care of your Invisalign while you wear your aligners. If you do any of the following things, you could be hurting your Invisalign.

1. Eating With the Aligners

One of the benefits of using these clear aligners is they’re removable, so you can eat and drink normally. However, if you forget or intentionally leave them on while eating and drinking, you can damage the plastic used for the aligners. If you enjoy your hot coffee and tea in the morning or throughout the day, you may contribute to your aligner becoming warped. If food particles get trapped in the aligners because you ate with them on as well, it could cause bacteria to grow.

2. Using Mouthwash to Wash Your Aligners

You must thoroughly clean your aligners. However, don’t make the mistake of using mouthwash to do so. It’s great for killing germs and bacteria in your mouth but can stain your aligners when you use them on the Invisalign directly. One of the benefits of clear aligners is the fact that they’re clear. If they become stained from green, purple, or pink mouthwash, it’ll defeat their aesthetic purpose. Keep it simple and wash your aligners with lukewarm water and soap or with the cleaning kit they come with.

3. Not Wearing Them Enough

It’s recommended to wear your aligners for up to 22 hours daily. When you take them off too much, you’re not allowing them to do the job of aligning your teeth. As a result, your teeth won’t track properly, which will set back your treatment. You need to switch your aligners out every couple of weeks based on how your teeth should move with each aligner.

4. Skipping Orthodontist Visits

Throughout your treatment, you’re supposed to have check-in visits with your orthodontist. These visits aren’t just to switch out your aligners but to check that your teeth are moving appropriately with each one. If you’re experiencing problems, your orthodontist can identify them early on, and change the aligner or make any recommendations for you.

Your Invisalign treatment can result in straight teeth in reduced time if you properly follow your treatment plan. According to Invisalign, some patients have seen some results in as little as three months. If you’re ready to upgrade your oral health and smile, contact our office today at Tru Smile Orthodontics for an appointment.