Are you antsy to get your straighter smile with Invisalign? It’s easy to be impatient about getting your results, but it’s well worth the wait with clear aligners. The average treatment timeline is about 12 to 18 months, but you might wonder if there are ways you can speed up the process. While you can’t make your trays work faster, here are four tips to help ensure you avoid any delays and stay on track.
1.) Wear Your Aligners for 22 Hours Every Day
Invisalign is an effective orthodontic treatment because it applies gentle pressure to your teeth. It does this consistently when you wear them, so it’s important you don’t take them out too often. You should only remove them to eat or drink anything other than water and to do your oral hygiene routine. Keep your trays in for 22 hours daily, and you can keep your journey going smoothly.
2.) Take Care of Your Smile and Trays
Building off the point above, you should routinely clean your teeth and aligners. Try to make it a habit of doing it after eating, as doing so will remove any plaque that can spell trouble and lead to dental problems. Cavities and the like can cause delays when left untreated. By giving your smile and your trays a good scrubbing, you can prevent decay and issues.
3.) Keep Up with Your Dentist’s Instructions
Your dentist is here for you, so it’s important you follow any instructions they have given you! Getting your full wear time and switching to your next set as planned can keep things moving and help you avoid delays. Swapping over too soon or not keeping in your trays can lead to poor fit, discomfort, or even orthodontic relapse! This also goes for any elastics if you need them.
4.) Protect Your Aligners from Damage
Losing or damaging your Invisalign can put a bit of a bump on your treatment. You may need to get a replacement, which can take time to order and get. Make sure that you always put your aligners in their case and not in napkins or on the counter. That way, they stay safe and protected.
In the end, the best way to get to your Invisalign results the fastest is with consistency. By keeping up with your routine and taking care of your oral health, you can prevent hiccups and get toward the straighter smile you dream of.
About the Author
Dr. Stacy Hebert-Schoener earned her dental degree from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston. She is dedicated to helping the Bellaire community get the healthier bites they deserve with reliable solutions like Invisalign. By staying at your side throughout your treatment, you can trust that you know how to avoid delays and stay on track. If you need any more tips about living with aligners, schedule an appointment or call Dr. Stacy’s office at (713)666-1597.