Invisalign clear aligners are restorative and part of cosmetic dentistry in Cypress, TX. They are a series of nearly invisible plastic mouth trays that gradually move teeth to their final straight-lined position. These trays are fabricated based on a patient’s treatment plan created from x-rays, photos, and a 3D model of their teeth.
The Invisalign procedure begins with a consultation, where your orthodontist examines your teeth and takes impressions of your mouth. These will create a treatment plan showing how your teeth can shift and how long it may take.
Your dentist will give you a series of aligners to wear sequentially. These trays are to be worn for about 20 hours a day, and you’ll change them out for the next set of aligners in your series, each time moving your teeth one step closer to their desired alignment.
Each set of aligners is to be worn for two weeks, and then you’ll switch to the next set. You’ll want to ensure you’re wearing the entire series, which will help you achieve optimal results.
Invisalign treatment is a good choice for many patients, but it may only be right for some. For example, traditional braces may be more appropriate if you have severe crowding or other complex issues with your smile. Also, some people might have trouble complying with the prescribed wear schedule, which can slow or impede progress.
What are the Dos and don’ts?
Do’s
Getting Invisalign clear aligners in Cypress, TX, is a great way to get straighter teeth without the hassles of traditional braces. However, patients must be careful to refrain from doing anything that could damage their trays or make the treatment less effective.
- Maintain proper hygiene
Brush and floss to remove leftover debris that could lead to tooth decay or other dental problems. This is critical because your teeth and trays spend 22 hours in your mouth daily, so keeping them as clean as possible is vital. - Wear the aligners as recommended.
Invisalign requires a certain amount of wear time, between 20 and 22 hours daily. - Rinse your aligners
This is why it’s important to rinse your aligners after removing them.
This is especially true if you’ve eaten or drunk anything that could stain your trays. For instance, fruits that are high in acid, such as lemons and oranges, can damage your trays.
- Remove aligners
Remember to remove your trays before eating or drinking anything except water! This is important because food and drinks can stain your trays and cause particles to become stuck between your teeth. Similarly, avoid chewing gum or sticky and chewy candies that can displace your aligners. - Keep the aligners moist.
Soak the aligners in a denture solution when you are not wearing them to keep them moist and prevent them from drying and accumulating plaques. - Store
As with any other appliance, it’s important to store your aligners in case when not in use. This will help prevent any odor or residue from developing and keep your aligners fresh for longer.
It’s also recommended to store your clear aligners in a separate case from your mouthguards if you are playing any high-contact sports. This will ensure that your aligners stay in their cases so they don’t get lost or damaged while you wear your mouthguard.
- Visit the dentist
You must visit the dentist in Cypress, TX, during the orthodontic treatment to assess the treatment process.
Don’ts
- Cut back on sugar and sticky foods
You should also cut back on snacks and sipping on drinks when wearing your aligners, as this can affect how well they work. Sticky sweets and caramel are particularly hard on your aligners and can cause them to chip or crack. - Do not leave the aligners out.
Another don’t is to leave your aligners out in the open for prolonged periods, which can expose them to airborne pathogens and bacteria. This can lead to stains and discoloration, making them harder to clean. - Do not use hot water or abrasive teeth-cleaning products.
When cleaning the Invisalign aligners, use cold water and a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove the plaque build-up.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Mirabella Smiles for more information about Invisalign and what you can expect during the treatment.
Posted on behalf of Smile Well Dentistry