Are you thinking about getting Invisalign? Perhaps you have just picked up your retainers. Here are our top tips for keeping the process stress free at Lisburn Orthodontics.
FIRST THINGS FIRST, WHAT IS INVISALIGN?
Invisalign is a hugely popular method to straighten teeth. These clear aligners are more discreet, convenient, and comfortable than the traditional alternative. There are no restrictions on the food you can eat, and they will not impact your ability to clean your teeth.
1) WATER SHOULD BE YOUR DRINK OF CHOICE
This is probably one of the most important tips. It is so important only to drink water when you are wearing your retainers. Not only can sugary drinks decay your teeth, but drinking coffee, juice, alcohol and tea will stain your retainers over time. You must also avoid hot drinks as they will melt your retainers! Please do not be tempted to keep your retainers in when drinking- especially on a night out (white wine still stains).
2) WEAR YOUR INVISALIGN RETAINERS FOR 22 HOURS PER DAY
This point is equally as important as the first. One of the great aspects of Invisalign is the ability to remove your aligners when you like, unlike braces which are fixed to the teeth. However, we recommend wearing your Invisalign for 22 hours daily to ensure the treatment works. If you do not wear your retainers, you prolong your treatment time- be careful!
3) EAT SOFT FOOD FOR THE FIRST 24HRS OF TREATMENT
Invisalign is virtually pain-free; however, you may experience some minor discomfort for the first 24-48 hours of wearing your new aligners. We recommend eating soft foods like soup, stew, scrambled eggs and bananas after your first appointment.
5) KEEP YOUR PREVIOUS SET OF ALIGNERS
One of the most helpful tips is holding onto your previous set of aligners in case the new set breaks or gets lost. If this happens, wear your previous set until your new ones arrive. This way, you are not pausing or interrupting your treatment/progress.
6) USE YOUR PROVIDED INVISALIGN BOX/CASE
Try not to use a napkin for your retainers to avoid the risk of them being tossed into the bin (it's not fun retrieving them!) We also recommend using the provided box/case to protect them from getting lost. Avoid leaving them in the car on a. sunny day, as hot temperatures may melt the retainers.
LASTLY, ENJOY YOUR TREATMENT!
Seeing all the great progress as your teeth shift over time is very rewarding- enjoy your treatment! Please get in touch with us if you have any questions or concerns.
Interested in Invisalign? Book a consultation.
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