Bad Habits to Break If You Have Invisalign

Thinking about Invisalign? It’s an excellent choice for a discreet way to straighten your teeth. However, to make the most of this innovative treatment, avoid certain unhealthy practices that can undermine your progress. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the key habits you must stop repeating to ensure your Invisalign treatment is a success. Ready to keep your smile on track? Let’s dive into the negative tendencies you should avoid for optimal teeth straightening results.

1. Skipping Daily Wear Time

You must maintain 20-22 hours of wear time for Invisalign aligners daily. Skipping this wear time can hinder the progress of your orthodontic treatment. The aligners need to be in place for the majority of the day to move your teeth into the desired positions effectively. Neglecting to wear them as directed can lead to delays and additional visits to your orthodontist. 

In case you don’t manage adequate time during the daytime, stick to your Invisalign routine at night. 

2. Not Removing Aligners for Meals

One of the benefits of Invisalign aligners is that they are removable. However, it is important to take them off before consuming any drinks or foods except water. Eating with aligners in can damage both the aligners and your teeth. Food particles can get trapped, leading to staining and potential bad breath. Always take out your aligners before meals and brush your teeth before reinserting them.

3. Neglecting Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is vital when using Invisalign. Failing to brush and floss regularly can lead to plaque buildup and cavities, which can affect your aligners. Brush your teeth thoroughly after each meal before putting your aligners back in. Also, clean your aligners daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to keep them fresh and bacteria-free.

The orthodontist often advises teens to wear Invisalign Teen to correct crowding, gaps, and other misalignments. Hence, practicing optimal dental hygiene is necessary for them to maintain a healthy mouth during orthodontic treatment.  

4. Using Sticky or Sugary Foods

While Invisalign is removable, it’s still essential to avoid sticky and sugary foods. These types of foods can easily get stuck to your teeth or aligners, causing decay or staining. To prevent complications, sticky candies, gum, and sugary snacks should be limited. Opt for healthier snacks that are less likely to damage your aligners or promote tooth decay.

5. Not Storing Aligners Properly

When you’re not wearing your Invisalign aligners, store them in their case to avoid damage and contamination. Leaving them out in the open or placing them in a napkin can lead to loss or accidental damage. Always use the provided case to keep your aligners safe and clean.

6. Ignoring Scheduled Check-Ups

Regular check-ups with your orthodontic practitioner are crucial for monitoring your progress. Skipping these appointments can delay your treatment or lead to complications. Your orthodontist must ensure that your aligners fit correctly and that your teeth move as planned. Stick to your scheduled visits to keep your smile on track with Invisalign.

7. Drinking Colored Beverages

Drinks like coffee, tea, and wine can stain your aligners, leading to discoloration and potential embarrassment. Some residual stains can still affect your teeth even if you remove your aligners during these times. To avoid staining, drink water or use a straw for colored beverages when possible.

8. Not Changing Aligners On Time

Invisalign treatment involves switching to new aligners every few weeks. Not changing aligners on time can affect the progress of your treatment. Each set of teeth aligning trays is designed to make specific adjustments to your teeth. Delaying this change can cause your teeth to shift back or progress slower than planned.

9. Exceeding Aligner Wear for Cosmetic Fixes

Some people use their aligners for temporary fixes, like straightening teeth that aren’t part of the current treatment plan. This can disrupt your treatment and lead to complications. Stick to the treatment plan provided by your orthodontist and avoid using aligners for unintended purposes.

Breaking these bad habits is crucial for achieving the best results with your Invisalign treatment. Consistent wear, proper oral hygiene, and careful handling of your aligners will ensure that your treatment proceeds as planned. 

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll maintain your progress and enjoy a beautifully straightened smile. Follow these guidelines to get the most out of your Invisalign treatment and keep your teeth healthy and beautifully aligned.