Invisalign: What Impact Will It Have on My Daily Life?

When people think about orthodontics, the conversation often turns to the lifestyle changes required during treatment. However, modern options are now available, including Invisalign clear aligners. This very popular treatment for patients of all ages helps avoid many of the inconveniences associated with traditional orthodontics. Let us explore how Invisalign can affect your daily habits.

Wearing Invisalign Aligners for 22 Hours a Day: The Key to Success

To achieve the best results with Invisalign, it is essential to wear the aligners for at least 22 hours each day. This means they should be removed only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and performing your oral hygiene routine.

Tips to Follow This Guideline:

• Adopt a structured routine by planning your meals and snacks to reduce the time your aligners are removed
• Keep the case with you at all times to easily remove and replace your aligners
• Stay disciplined because every hour without your aligners can slow down your progress

No Impact on Your Diet: Enjoy the Foods You Love

Unlike fixed orthodontic appliances, Invisalign allows you to eat without restrictions because the aligners are removed during meals. This means you can continue enjoying your favorite foods, including those that are usually discouraged with braces, such as:

• Sticky or crunchy foods such as caramel or nuts
• Raw fruits and vegetables such as apples or carrots

Recommendations:

• Rinse your mouth before putting your aligners back in to prevent food particles from being trapped
• Avoid drinking colored beverages such as coffee, tea or red wine while wearing your aligners to prevent stains

Daily Oral Hygiene: A Top Priority

Invisalign treatment requires increased attention to your oral hygiene because aligners can trap food debris and bacteria. Poor hygiene may lead to cavities or gum problems during treatment.

Habits to Adopt:

• Brush and floss after every meal before putting your aligners back in
• Use a fluoride toothpaste to help protect your teeth from cavities
• Complete your routine with an antibacterial mouth rinse for added protection

Helpful tip: Keep a small dental hygiene kit with you if you are often on the go.

Caring for Your Invisalign Aligners: An Essential Step

To keep your aligners clear and effective, regular cleaning is necessary. Poor cleaning habits can lead to bacteria buildup and staining.

How to Clean Your Aligners:

• Rinse them with lukewarm water every time you remove them
• Gently brush them with a soft-bristle toothbrush before placing them back in
• Avoid hot water, which can warp the aligners

Extra tip: Soak them regularly in an aligner cleaning solution to disinfect them and eliminate odors.

A Treatment That Easily Fits Into Your Routine

Invisalign integrates smoothly into your daily life, as long as you follow a few simple rules. Finally, note that the team at the Centre Dentaire de Haute Technologie du Québec offers a free Invisalign consultation in Montreal to answer all your questions.