Invisalign has helped more than eight million patients achieve the smile of their dreams. While the clear aligners are best known for their discreet appearance, many patients aren’t aware of the ins and outs of treatment.
The more you know, the better prepared you will be. With this in mind, keep reading to learn some key points about Invisalign in Skokie.
Attachments Will Prove Helpful
To help teeth move effectively, you’ll receive some enamel-colored ridges that click into your aligners. The attachments make it look like you have clear braces. The number needed for each person varies. Don’t fret, they are discreet.
Whitening Treatments Can Wait
Don’t begin a teeth-whitening treatment while you are using Invisalign, especially if you have attachments. On a positive note, common practices for wearing Invisalign will help keep your teeth away from staining risks.
There’s No Such Thing as Too Much Cold Water
When you are wearing your Invisalign trays, stick to drinking cold water or clear sparkling water. You’ll avoid staining your trays and buildup of plaque.
You’ll Brush Your Teeth Often
You should be trying to brush after eating anything, so keep a toothbrush handy throughout the day. Carrying floss with you also is even better. The extra effort will result in healthy teeth and your aligners staying clear!
You’ll Need to Wear Your Aligners 22 Hours Daily for Best Results
Your aligners should be in nearly all the time unless you are eating, so take an aligner case with you. If three meals per day leave you wanting more, consider introducing a protein shake into each meal.
Kissing Will Take Some Getting Used to
It may be a learning process if you are feeling affectionate while wearing your aligners. Be patient to figure out what works, or you could take them out if you’ve met your 22-hour minimum of wear for the day.
You’ll Need to Use Your Real Fingernails Sometimes
Your fingernails help you easily remove your aligners. If manicures are high on your priority list, you can purchase a specialty tool like Orthokey for removal.
Expect to Take a Break from Lipstick
Lipstick and colored lip gloss can easily stick to aligners and attachments. Clear lip balm and gloss are still okay. Just be sure to clean them regularly to remove any waxy residue.
Refinement Aligners Will Wrap Up Your Treatment
After you’ve completed use of your initial aligner set, your dentist will provide refinement aligners to correct any teeth that are slightly off. It’s important to make sure you get the picturesque smile you want, after all.
The best things in life are worth the effort, and for a stellar smile, that means wearing Invisalign 22 hours each day during treatment while keeping your teeth and equipment clean. Now that you have some more information, be sure to ask your cosmetic dentist in Skokie any questions you have before getting started!
About the Practice
At Weiss Dental Arts, you’re in good hands with Dr. Brad Weiss and Dr. Ali Fulreader. Dr. Weiss is a longtime member of the Visiting Faculty of the prestigious L.D. Pankey Institute. Dr. Fulreader has completed several courses at the Pankey Institute, plus she’s a SPEAR Education member and a certified Invisalign provider. If you are wondering what to know before getting Invisalign in Skokie beyond what was presented in this blog post, the dentists can answer any questions during your consultation. They recommend Invisalign for crowded teeth, bite alignment issues, or spaces between teeth. You can visit their website or call (847) 864-0188 to get started.