Braces may be a rite of passage for most American adolescents. But according to the American Association of Orthodontists, approximately 20% of all orthodontic patients are over 18. Braces, however, may not be an option for the older crowd for numerous reasons. Fortunately, Invisalign can correct multiple issues quicker than braces and with far more freedom. Just be sure to follow a few tips to stay on track with the treatment during the holidays.
Maintain Good Daily Oral Health Habits
Invisalign allows the patient to continue their oral health habits with ease. And those habits need to continue throughout the treatment. Brush your teeth twice a day and don’t forget to floss once daily to remove built-up plaque and food particles. That practice will help reduce the risk of decay while keeping your teeth bright and beautiful.
Wear Your Aligners as Required
Invisalign aligners offer far more freedom than braces because they can be removed. In fact, they need to be taken out for meals and brushing needs. Once the meal and oral care are completed, brush the aligners and replace them into the mouth. Your Invisalign aligners should be worn between 20 and 22 hours per day.
Be Sure to Change Your Aligners as Needed
The Invisalign treatment is customized to each patient’s needs. So as the treatment progresses, the aligners will change in size and shape to ensure the teeth continue adjusting to meet the overall expectations. Therefore, you will have several aligners over the course of the procedure. Your Red Bank dentist will fit you for your first set and schedule appointments for replacements. As time goes on, fewer appointments will be required but you’ll still need to change your aligners at the required time. Failing to do so will extend the treatment time.
Visit Red Bank Dentistry for Cleanings and Checkups
Invisalign offers extra freedom and maintenance is easy with the removable aligners. But that doesn’t mean decay and problems can’t still occur. On top of general checkups for adjustment needs and to check on the treatment progress, you’ll also need regular cleanings. Having your teeth cleaned at least once but preferably twice a year is a good rule of thumb during the Invisalign treatment. Your dentist will also be able to answer any questions or concerns regarding oral health and dietary habits, so make a list of questions if necessary to make the checkups count.
Don’t Forget to Wear Your Retainer
Most people know a retainer will be needed for a while after braces are worn to ensure the teeth don’t shift back into the wrong position. But they often forget or simply don’t realize that a retainer is needed with Invisalign as well. You may need to wear your retainer most of the day at first, but then it should only be worn at night. Red Bank Dentistry will provide you with the necessary retainers and post-treatment instructions. As long as you follow them, your teeth should remain straight and beautiful
