Invisalign® FAQ
When to Contact the Office
- If you experience ongoing severe pain, issues with aligner fit, or if an aligner breaks.
The Rundown
- Wear your aligners 22 hours per day.
- Only remove your aligners for eating, drinking, or brushing.
- Keep them clean!
- Change aligners every week unless advised differently by your dentist.
- We recommend chewies to help seat your aligners. (Web: please make sure this link opens in a new window)
- Wear your retainers at night forever to maintain results.
Adaptation
- Sensitivity: It is common to experience some initial discomfort or pressure when a new set of aligners is first put in place. This sensation typically subsides as your teeth adjust to the aligners.
- Insertion and Removal: Practice inserting and removing the aligners to become comfortable with the process. Always use gentle pressure and avoid using sharp objects to pry the aligners off.
- Speech Adjustment: You may notice a slight change in your speech, such as a lisp, during the first week or two as your mouth adjusts to the aligners. This is normal and usually temporary.
Oral Hygiene with Invisalign®
- Cleaning Aligners: Clean your aligners daily using a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap or a small amount of toothpaste. Avoid using colored or scented soaps as they may stain or leave residue on the aligners.
- Teeth Cleaning: Brush and floss your teeth before reinserting the aligners after each meal. If you are out and not able to brush right away, rinse well with water before inserting your aligners. Brush promptly as soon as you can thereafter.
- Mouthwash: Use a mild, non-alcoholic mouthwash to keep your mouth fresh and clean.
Diet & Lifestyle Adjustments
- Foods & Drinks: Avoid drinking hot beverages with aligners in, as they can warp the plastic. Cold or room temperature clear liquids only.
Dental Health & Potential Complications
- Tooth Movement & Tracking: Regularly wearing your aligners as directed is crucial. Failure to wear the aligners for the recommended 20-22 hours a day can lead to less effective tooth movement and may extend your treatment.
- Gum Health: Pay close attention to your gum health. Irritation or redness can occur, especially if aligners are not kept clean or if there’s an allergic reaction to the aligner material.
Protecting Your Invisalign® Aligners
- Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits with your dentist to ensure your treatment is progressing as planned and to receive your next set of aligners.
- Aligner Care: Store your aligners in the protective case provided when not in use to prevent loss or damage.
FAQs
Answer: Clean your Invisalign trays with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can warp the plastic. Use a small amount of toothpaste or unscented hand soap. You may also soak in Retainer Brite.
Answer: No, you should remove your Invisalign trays before eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent damage and staining.
Answer: Wear your Invisalign trays for 20 to 22 hours a day for the best results. Only remove them for eating, drinking anything but water, and brushing your teeth.
Answer: If you lose a tray, contact the office immediately. Depending on your situation, you may need to wear the previous tray or move to the next one until a replacement is provided (additional cost may apply).
Answer: Store your Invisalign trays in their protective case. Do not wrap them in a paper towel or napkin, as they can easily be thrown away by mistake.
Answer: Yes, some discomfort is normal as your teeth adjust to the trays. This discomfort should subside after a few days.
Answer: If an attachment falls off, notify the office as soon as possible. They may need to be reattached to ensure your treatment continues effectively.
Answer: It’s not recommended to drink coffee or other colored liquids with the trays in, as they can stain the trays and potentially your teeth.
Answer: Regular cleaning and soaking your trays can prevent odors.
Answer: Yes, smoking can stain the trays and is not recommended during treatment.
Answer: If a tray cracks or breaks, contact the office for advice. You may need to wear a previous tray or move to the next tray until a replacement is provided.
Answer: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort. If the pain is severe, consult your dentist.
Answer: Consult your dentist before using any whitening products, as some can affect the trays or your treatment.
Answer: Regular appointments with your dentist will monitor progress. You should also notice gradual movement in your teeth.
Answer: If the trays are causing irritation, your dentist can adjust them for a better fit.
Answer: No, chewing gum can stick to the trays. Always remove your trays before chewing gum.
Answer: Treatment length varies depending on individual cases, usually ranging from 6 to 18 months.
Answer: Reinsert the tray as soon as possible and wear it until the scheduled change. Contact your dentist if you’ve missed a significant amount of time.
Answer: Some people may notice a temporary slight lisp, but this usually improves as you get used to wearing the trays.
Answer: When traveling, carry your current set of trays, the previous set as a backup, and your next set if you’re due to change them during your trip.
Answer: Avoid leaving your trays in extreme temperatures, using colored mouthwash, and any harsh cleaning chemicals.
Answer: Yes, but for contact sports, it’s recommended to remove the trays and use a mouthguard for protection
Answer: Keep a schedule as advised by your dentist, usually changing trays every 1-2 weeks.
Answer: If a tray edge is still causing discomfort, you may gently use a nail file to smooth the edge. If it is still uncomfortable, contact the office. They can smooth out the edge for a better fit.
Answer: Retainers are for life! Initially, you may be advised to wear them full-time, transitioning to only at night. If you do not wear your retainers, your teeth will regress to where they were before your treatment.
