6 Habits You Should Avoid During Invisalign Treatment

Now that you have decided that you are getting Invisalign, you are super excited to see the results! You know that they are effective, practically invisible, and that they do not require you to give up your favorite foods. But there are several habits you should be avoiding to help the treatment go as smoothly as possible. Continue reading to learn what they are.

Drinking Beverages Other Than Water

When you are wearing Invisalign, it is important that you stick to water. If you have dark colored beverages, like cola, cranberry juice, or red wine, your aligners can become stained. Highly acidic sports drinks can become trapped in your aligners and soften your enamel. This leaves you vulnerable to tooth decay. Hot beverages like tea and coffee also should not be combined with Invisalign. They can warp and misshape the aligners, extending your treatment time. If you want to have a beverage other than water, you should temporarily remove your aligners.

Forgetting to Switch to Your New Set of Aligners

After you have worn the aligners for the period of time instructed to you by your dentist, your teeth have moved to their new places. Giving yourself an extra day will not benefit you and can actually delay your treatment. Ensure that you are following the instructions that you have been given for the most effective outcome.

Moving the Aligners with Your Tongue

Not only will your tongue get sore, but you can actually change the shape of your aligners towards the end of the cycle when they have a looser fit. This will make them less effective and can prolong your treatment time.

Eating Sticky Candies and Foods

Candies like jellybeans, caramel, taffy, and gum should be avoided during your treatment. They can easily stick to your mouth and aligners causing them to become damaged or break. This will definitely prolong your treatment. When these sweets stick to your teeth, you are also likely to experience plaque and tartar build up that will lead to tooth decay.

Leaving Your Aligners Outside Their Case

Even if you are only planning on taking your aligners out for a few minutes, never leave them on a plate, napkin, or anywhere other than their case. You could accidently throw them away, leave them someplace, or they could become damaged. Your Invisalign case is where they can be best kept safe.

Skipping a Day

Wearing your aligners for 20-22 hours each day is necessary for your treatment to go smoothly. Failing to do so could result in an increase of treatment duration. Keeping your aligners in for the majority of the time is a commitment you are making when you choose Invisalign.

Invisalign in Marysville will give you the results that you are looking for without brackets and wires, but you need to make sure to avoid these harmful habits. By following the instructions of your dentist, you will be reaping the benefits of a straighter smile in no time!

About the Author

Dr. Katie Montgomery is a general and cosmetic dentist practicing at Montgomery Family Dental in Marysville, OH. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. She is also an active member of the American Dental Association and the Ohio Dental Association. Dr. Montgomery offers Invisalign as one of her many services. For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit her website or call (937) 642-1151.