Are You Wearing Your Invisalign Enough?

Invisalign is a great investment to fix bite and alignment issues without the noticeability or restrictions of metal braces. Clear aligners worn over your teeth will move them into position gradually. Continual pressure is necessary to avoid complications with your treatment, which is why your dentist has instructed you to wear them for at least 22 hours per day. If your aligners feel tight or are causing discomfort, you may not be wearing them long enough. Here’s how to ensure you’re keeping your treatment plan on track.

How Does Invisalign Work?

Both metal braces and Invisalign use gentle pressure to reposition teeth. However, brackets and wires aren’t needed with Invisalign. Advanced technology was used to map the movement of your teeth, which was fabricated into a series of aligners. Each aligner applies pressure to specific teeth to move them in small increments. 

While Invisalign has several benefits, many people are drawn to the fact that aligners are removable. Although this makes it easy to brush and floss your teeth and you don’t have any dietary restrictions, you might forget to put your aligners back into your mouth. No matter the reason, not wearing your aligners for 22 hours can add long delays to your treatment.

Tips to Meet Your Daily Wear Time

It’s easy to comply with your treatment plan by ensuring you’re wearing your aligners enough by following a few simple rules:

• Remove Your Aligners When Eating: You must remove your aligners when eating or drinking anything except water. This will prevent damage and staining. Put them back in your mouth as soon as you’re finished, but don’t forget to rinse them and brush your teeth first.
• Soak Your Aligners When Eating: To reduce the amount of time your aligners are out of your mouth, soak them in cleaning crystals while you’re eating a meal. This will be one less time you’ll need to take them out during the day.
• Remove Your Aligners When Brushing: Remove your aligners when it’s time to brush and floss. Don’t forget to clean them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild hand soap or dishwashing liquid.

You should only remove your aligners for these situations. As a result, you can rest easy knowing you’re wearing them long enough.

About Dr. Ahmed Saad

Dr. Saad achieved his dental degree from the USC School of Dentistry and has regularly continued his education to provide specialty services, like Invisalign. He can correct bite and alignment issues using discreet, clear aligners. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (703) 991-4178.