Straightening teeth with clear aligners is quickly becoming the most popular method of treatment for older teens and adults. Designed to treat a variety of problems, including crowded, gapped, misaligned, and crooked teeth, they offer a more subtle appearance and flexible routine. But what do patients need to do to learn how to prepare for Invisalign? The following tips will make the process simple and easy for anyone needing treatment with clear aligners.
Brush More Frequently
Instead of focusing on twice a day, patients undergoing Invisalign treatment should expect to brush their teeth after every meal. This ensures that teeth remain healthy and free of any harmful bacteria that can easily transfer onto clear aligners. The trays should also be cleaned and rinsed before being reinserted into the mouth.
Teeth must remain decay-free throughout orthodontic treatment because of the potential problems that can arise (i.e., cavities, gum disease) that can cause a delay in achieving desired results.
Keep a Dental Kit With You
Caring for Invisalign aligners will not always happen at home, which is why individuals must keep a dental kit on hand all the time. It should include a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, and a small bottle of mouthwash. Patients should also plan to keep extra-strength Tylenol, an orthodontic appliance to assist in removing aligners, and a protective storage case.
These items will make daily life with Invisalign much easier.
Minimize Snacking
Wearing Invisalign for 20-22 hours each day is necessary if patients want to remain on schedule. While it is important to remove trays before eating or drinking, they should be reinserted immediately after cleaning one’s teeth. However, if they’re left out too long because of prolonged snacking, it can lead to issues that delay an individual’s results. Also, additional snacking can increase a person’s risk for tooth decay and gum disease depending on the type of snacks consumed.
Wearing the aligners according to the recommended timeframe each day helps patients to cut back on the amount of snacking throughout the day while also, keeping them on track for a straighter smile.
Determine Your Budget
Invisalign may or may not be covered by dental insurance. Before the first appointment, it’s necessary that patients contact their insurance carrier to determine the terms associated with orthodontic coverage. Age and the type of braces are two of the most common stipulations that can come with this type of plan. While some policies may only cover individuals under the age of 19 or who are receiving traditional metal braces, others are welcoming to providing coverage for Invisalign.
Becoming familiar with these tips before the initial appointment can help individuals better prepare for what lies ahead and how best to navigate orthodontic treatment.
About the Practice
At Grand Dental – Franklin Park, we are pleased to have an in-house orthodontist on staff. By offering Invisalign clear aligners to individuals suffering from crooked, overcrowded, gapped, and misaligned teeth, we can develop a plan designed to improve their oral health and appearance. Contact us today by visiting our website or calling (847) 860-7093 to learn more about clear aligners.