When it comes to looking after metal braces, most people (even those who have never worn braces) know the drill. This is because, if you grew up in the last 30 or so years, you would have likely had a friend, family member, or even an acquaintance in your life who wore braces.
But times are changing. And now, the majority of orthodontic work is completed through the use of invisible aligners, also known as clear aligners or clear braces. And suffice it to say, these options are often a lot easier to take care of, even for teenage patients.
When you come to see our team at Kooringal Dental, we can assess your suitability for invisible aligners like Invisalign Wagga to ensure that you will get the most out of this nifty and easy-to-use aligner.
So, with that in mind, what are some of our team’s tips for using Invisalign Wagga? Read on to find out!
Keep the aligners clean
Invisalign Wagga is made from plastic, meaning that the aligners are easier to care for than traditional braces, especially as they are removable. Before putting the aligners in your mouth, make sure to clean them thoroughly to remove any plaque or food particles that may have become attached to them. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to clean them, or you can use aligner cleaning crystals. As contradictory as it may seem, you should not attempt to clean your aligners using hot water, as this can cause them to warp out of shape.
Keep them safe
When you’re not wearing the aligners, make sure to store them in their protective case to keep them safe from damage or loss. This will also make them easier to locate!
While it can seem tempting, you should not simply toss them into your bag or pocket, as the pressure of being in these locations with other items can push them into an odd shape, rendering them useless.
Don’t eat with them in
Our team at Kooringal Dental will advise you to wear your invisible aligners for about 22 hours per day. That means you will have to have them in your mouth most of the time, and you are only advised to take them out when you are eating, drinking anything that isn’t water, or you are brushing your teeth.
So, we will always advise you to take them out before you eat, as eating while wearing them can cause them to warp out of shape.
Clean your teeth!
This is more about regular hygiene, but having poor oral hygiene can prevent your aligners from working correctly. You should always brush and floss your teeth before putting your aligners into your mouth. This will ensure that your teeth are clean and will help prevent plaque build-up on the aligners while also preventing decay.
Schedule regular check-ups
You will need to follow the treatment plan designed by our orthodontist or dental team, which may involve attending check-ups. However, you can download the associated app for your smartphone and will be able to send us photos of your smile once a week, so we can assess progress.
DISCLAIMER
All treatment carries risks. Individual consultation is required with one of our practitioners to ensure that the treatment is right for you.