Look Out! 5 Ways You Can Ruin Your Invisalign Treatment

Are you considering Invisalign? Maybe you’ve already started working your way through your series of clear aligners. Either way, it’s important to be familiar with the different ways you can negatively impact your treatment timeline. After all, while this discreet teeth-straightening option is relatively hassle-free, there are a few key rules that must be followed. With this in mind, keep reading to learn a few common mistakes patients make that prolong their Invisalign treatment.

#1. Rinsing Your Aligners with Hot Water

While clear aligners are comprised of durable, high-quality materials, they aren’t indestructible. In fact, without proper care, their shape can warp, rendering them virtually useless. That’s why it’s so important to only use cold or lukewarm water when rinsing them off.

#2. Not Wearing Your Aligners for 22 Hours a Day

Invisalign does offer patients removable braces, but you should be wearing them the majority of the time – 22 hours a day to be exact. This will ensure the trays have the ample time they need to gently shift your teeth into their properly aligned positions. Remember, the less you wear them, the less likely you are to stay on track with your treatment timeline.

#3. Storing Your Trays Incorrectly

When it does come time to take out your aligners, don’t leave them on your bathroom counter or wrap them up in a napkin on the table. After all, the last thing you want is to misplace or break your trays. Instead, place them in their designated storage case after rinsing them off.

#4. Skipping Your Check-in Appointments

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign doesn’t require you to visit your orthodontist for adjustment appointments. You will, however, need to visit them every six weeks or so. These visits ensure your teeth are tracking properly and any complications that arise are handled swiftly.

#5. Eating and Drinking with Your Aligners

Out of sheer convenience, you may be tempted to just keep your aligners in while you enjoy your meal. Unfortunately, this can seriously warp their shape, making them no longer a useful teeth-straightening tool. Therefore, stick to just plain, lukewarm water. For all other foods and drinks, take them out.

After struggling with misaligned teeth for years, the last thing you want to do is delay your results. The good news is that avoiding the above mistakes will help you stay on track with your Invisalign treatment timeline!

About the Practice

Our team at Ralph Avenue Dental Care goes above and beyond to create an environment that is warm, welcoming, judgment-free, and enjoyable. Our team of phenomenal doctors has joined together to offer a comprehensive array of services, from routine checkups to Invisalign, all under one roof. At each and every appointment, we prioritize patient education to ensure you have the stress-free, effective, comfortable experience you deserve. If you have a question about Invisalign or are ready to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call 718-531-0300.