Invisible aligners have become a popular choice for many people looking to straighten their teeth discreetly. They offer a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional metal braces. However, certain mistakes can be costly to both your wallet and your dental health if you’re not careful when wearing invisible aligners.
In this blog post, we will discuss five common mistakes to avoid while undergoing treatment with invisible aligners.
1. Eating Any Type of Food
One of the most significant advantages of invisible aligners is that they are removable, allowing you to eat and drink as you please. However, this doesn’t mean you should eat anything while wearing them.
Eating with aligners in place can cause food particles to become trapped between the aligners and your teeth, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. It can also cause damage to the aligners themselves, which can be expensive to replace.
Furthermore, always remove your aligners before eating and brush your teeth before putting them back in to avoid these problems.
2. Failing to Clean Their Teeth
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential when wearing invisible aligners. Failing to clean your teeth and aligners regularly can lead to a buildup of bacteria, plaque, and tartar, which can cause bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease.
It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss daily. Additionally, clean your aligners by rinsing them with water and using a soft toothbrush to remove any food particles or buildup gently. You can also use specialized cleaning solutions or tablets designed for cleaning aligners to keep them in top condition.
3. Forgetting to Wear Them
Invisible aligners need to be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day for them to be effective. Forgetting to wear them for extended periods can delay your treatment progress and may even result in needing additional aligners, which can be costly.
To avoid this, make it a habit to put your aligners back in immediately after eating or brushing your teeth. Set reminders on your phone or use a timer to ensure you’re wearing them for the required amount of time each day.
4. Consuming Staining Food or Drinks
While invisible aligners are made of clear plastic, they can still become discolored or stained over time. Consuming foods or drinks known to cause stainings, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored berries, can cause your aligners to become less transparent and more noticeable.
To minimize staining, remove your aligners before consuming these items and brush your teeth before putting them back in. If your aligners do become stained, you can try soaking them in a cleaning solution or ask your orthodontist about getting them replaced.
5. Drinking Hot Beverages
Drinking hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, while wearing invisible aligners can cause the aligners to warp and become misshapen. This can affect the fit of the aligners and their ability to move your teeth correctly.
To avoid this, always remove your aligners before consuming hot beverages and wait for your drink to cool down before putting them back in.
Final Thoughts
Invisible aligners are an excellent option for those looking to straighten their teeth discreetly. Still, it’s essential to avoid these common mistakes to ensure your treatment is successful and worth the investment. By following the proper care and maintenance guidelines and being mindful of your habits, you can achieve a healthy and beautiful smile with the help of invisible aligners.
If you need Invisalign or other smile solutions, contact us at Watertown Dentistry. We will connect you with the best dentist in Newton to find the most suitable options for your dental needs. Book an appointment to get started today!