Invisalign is one of the most advanced orthodontic procedures currently available, offering patients a viable alternative to traditional braces that is discrete, comfortable, and achieves the ultimate outcome of the perfect smile. Invisalign achieves this by using a series of clear custom-made aligners to gradually move your teeth into the desired position.
If you’ve opted for Invisalign as the pathway to creating a winning smile, here are five tips to enjoy the best Invisalign experience.
Appointments
Invisalign uses a series of custom-fitted, clear, removeable aligners that are upgraded at intervals to move teeth into the desired position. That means no wires, no brackets and no adjustments.
Instead, you will need to schedule regular appointments with your orthodontist to check the progress of your dental movement.
These appointments occur between four to eight weeks apart and are not lengthy nor do they involve extensive work. Scheduling a quick progress appointment at the suggested intervals will maximise the effectiveness of your treatment.
Getting used to aligners
As with traditional braces, aligners take a little getting used to. You may find your mouth produces excess saliva, and that your speech changes a little as you settle into wearing this new orthodontic fixture.
On a positive note, there is little discomfort associated with Invisalign, and you will quickly get used to the sensation of aligners.
Wear
Even though Invisalign aligners are removeable, the key to their effectiveness is regular, consistent wear. The minimum amount of time you should wear your aligners each day is 22 hours, however we strongly suggest, unless it’s a very special occasion, you should only remove aligners to clean your teeth or eat.
You also need to make sure you change your aligners at the right time, in the right order, adhering to your orthodontist’s instructions.
Hygiene
Dental hygiene is critical throughout orthodontic treatment. In the case of Invisalign you should pay particular attention to brushing and flossing. This is because the Invisalign trays can retain residual food against your teeth and prevent saliva from flushing debris away .
Meanwhile, your aligners should be cleaned with warm water and antibacterial soap, or specially provided Invisalign cleaner. It is not advised that you clean your aligners with toothpaste.
Wear your retainer
Once initial treatment with Invisalign is complete, most patients are required to wear a retainer to maintain the result achieved. It’s important you wear this as instructed to ensure that beautiful smile is maintained. The retention phase of treatment entails a fixed wire retainer that sits behind the top and bottom front teeth and a night-time retainer very similar to the aligners worn throughout your treatment.
About Norwest
Norwest Orthodontics specialises in helping patients achieve a great smile, no matter their age. We feature a range of orthodontic treatments that span from early intervention right through to remedial adult work.
You can learn more about our services, or contact us to make an appointment.
More info: norwestortho.com.au
