5 Things to Know Before Getting Invisalign

Posted on November 14, 2023

Are you considering getting Invisalign to achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of? It’s a great choice for many patients and offers a more discreet teeth-straightening experience than traditional braces.

Before you book your consultation, there are some things you need to know about Invisalign.

Invisalign Is Faster Than Traditional Braces

While many people choose Invisalign over traditional braces for its discretion, that’s not the only benefit of making this choice. Invisalign is often more efficient and quicker than metal braces. In fact, most Invisalign patients will see noticeable teeth straightening in the first two to three months.

Invisalign Must Stay in 22 Hours a Day

For Invisalign to work how it’s intended, your aligners must be in your mouth for 22 hours daily. This means you need to fit all your eating and drinking into just two hours a day (water can be consumed with the aligners in). If you enjoy drinking your morning coffee at a leisurely pace, this will likely need to change.

You’ll Be Brushing Your Teeth Often

Every time you take your aligners out to eat or drink, you’ll need to brush and floss your teeth before putting them back in (don’t forget to factor that into your two hours mentioned above).

If you aren’t doing this, it can cause your aligners to yellow, which can be unflattering. Plus, it can cause food to be trapped between your aligners and teeth, which is both uncomfortable and unhealthy for your mouth.

Because of the increased brushing, many Invisalign patients choose to have toothbrushes and floss everywhere. Put some toothbrushing supplies in your car, your bag or purse, your work desk, or anywhere you’re likely to be when you eat. It will help you remember to brush and make it more convenient.

You Need to Clean Your Aligners Correctly

Even though you’re using toothpaste on your teeth, you don’t want to use it on your aligners. Brushing your aligners can cause them to become yellow or cloudy. Plus, the abrasives in toothpaste can cause build-up on your aligners. Instead, use a mild cleaner designed for aligners.

Common cleaning solutions patients use on their Invisalign include:

• Gentle, unscented soap and water
• Vinegar and water
• Peroxide and water
• Baking soda and water
• Retainer cleaner

Never use hot water to clean your aligners. Instead, use warm water. Clean your aligners when you wake up and before putting them back in your mouth. You should also soak them once daily to break down any residue they accumulate throughout the day.

You Can Get a Free Consultation

A consultation for Invisalign is free at Nevada Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry. Patients of all ages can see a doctor and find out if an Invisalign treatment is the right choice for them.

If you’ve wondered if you can improve your smile with these clear aligners, Dr. Samer Faranesh wants to meet with you and discuss any questions or concerns you may have. Contact our office today to get your consultation.