For many people who want to straighten their smiles with Invisalign, it may seem like they can pop their clear aligners on and off whenever they feel like it. In reality, according to the Invisalign website, their trays need to be worn for at least 20-22 hours each day so that treatment is as effective as possible. This is because they’re only effective while you’re wearing them, so doing so the recommended amount is key to keeping your treatment on track. If you’re already undergoing treatment or are considering starting it, read on to learn about five tips that will help you reach your daily Invisalign wear time.
Tip #1: Time Your Meals
One great way to ensure that you meet your daily Invisalign wear time is to schedule out time for meals in advance. Give yourself 15 minutes to eat breakfast, 30 minutes for lunch, and 60 minutes for dinner so that you have enough of a buffer each day if you want a snack between meals. This will also ensure that you have adequate time to complete your oral hygiene routine once you’re done eating.
Tip #2: Use a Tracker
Apps like “Tray Minder” are designed to make it easier for you to keep track of how often you wear your aligners. This will cut out the guesswork of determining whether or not you meet your Invisalign wear time each day.
Tip #3: Multitask
To ensure that your aligners don’t become stained or damaged and to prevent bacteria buildup, you will need to clean them every day. While eating or brushing your teeth after meals, multitask by placing your aligners in a glass of cold or lukewarm water with cleaning crystals during meals. Alternatively, you can use an Invisalign solution or one made for retainers or dentures.
Tip #4: Brush, Floss, and Rinse
Immediately after you finish eating, brush and floss your teeth to move bacteria and keep food particles from getting stuck behind your trays. This will also lessen the risk of staining your aligners. Additionally, rinse your mouth out with mouthwash to get rid of as many harmful bacteria as possible.
Tip #5: Switch to New Trays Before Bed
The first few hours after you put on a new set of aligners are often the most uncomfortable since your mouth is adjusting to them. Putting them on right before you go to bed means you may sleep through the initial discomfort. You can also take pain medicine or a sleep aid to help you fall asleep.
Meeting your Invisalign wear time is key to keeping your treatment plan on track. With these five tips, you’ll be able to prevent delays and will soon be sporting a gorgeous grin you love!
About the Practice
Led by Dr. Krunal Patel and Dr. Poorvi Gandhi, the Spring House team at NeoSmile Dental Care takes pride in helping patients of all ages take good care of their pearly whites. If your teeth are misaligned and you’re interested in having them fixed, they offer Invisalign trays that can do the trick. They can also give you advice on how to make sure you meet your daily Invisalign wear time. If you want to set up an appointment with NeoSmile Dental Care or are interested in learning more about Invisalign, call (215) 643-5220 or visit their website.
