With removable aligners, no dietary restrictions, and fewer check-in appointments, Invisalign is quite hassle-free! One “rule” that is extremely important, however, is meeting the 22-hour-a-day wear time. After all, the aligners only work when they are snugly against your teeth. As a result, the more you wear them, the more likely you are to stay on-track with your treatment plan. If you’re worried about the wear time, don’t worry – here’s a quick guide to help.
Tip #1: Plan Out Your Meals
With only two hours of “free” time, there isn’t much time for snacking. That’s why it’s important to plan ahead by stocking up on filling meals! Oatmeal, vegetable soups, and pasta are all great options because they are both filling and soft.
When it comes time to actually eat, try allowing 15 minutes for breakfast, 30 minutes for lunch, and 45 minutes for dinner. This will leave you with some wiggle room and allow for the time needed to complete your oral hygiene regimen.
Tip #2: Track Your Wear Time
Two hours go by quickly, so it’s a good idea to track your wear time. Fortunately, Invisalign has an app that makes this quite simple! All you need to do is hit the timer when you take them out, and press the timer again when you put them back in. This will be extremely helpful, especially at the beginning when you’re adjusting to life with Invisalign.
Tip #3: Multitask
Cleaning your aligners with a soft-bristled toothbrush after each meal will help keep them nice and clean. If they do get discolored, don’t stress – that’s where the cleaning crystals come in. Since your aligners will need to soak for 15 minutes or so, it’s important to multitask. Instead of leaving them to soak while you’re watching an episode of your favorite TV show, use the cleaning crystals while you’re eating dinner. That way, you’re capitalizing on your “free” time.
Tip #4: Brush and Floss Immediately After Each Meal
After you’re done eating, immediately brush and floss your teeth. Waiting to complete your oral hygiene routine will increase your chances of not meeting the required wear time. Note: don’t put your aligners back in your mouth without cleaning your teeth. This will increase your chances of developing a cavity or gum disease, which could cause you to fall off track with your treatment timeline.
Tip #5: Change Trays Right Before Bed
In the hours after starting a new tray, you may feel some discomfort. The good news is that the soreness is usually short-lived. If you find yourself tempted to take them out, then try changing trays right before bed. That way, you sleep through the biggest adjustment. By morning, your aligners should feel much more comfortable.
At first, meeting the 22-hour wear time may seem overwhelming. Luckily, the above tips can help make it much easier and increase your chances of staying on-track with your treatment plan!
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Complete Dentistry, our team focuses on providing convenient care for our patients. That starts with a convenient location and extends to convenient treatment and payment options. Plus, Dr. Rose Johnson and Dr. Wayne Barker have morning, lunchtime, and afternoon hours, which makes visiting them more convenient too. If you have a question about your Invisalign treatment, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment via our website or by phone at (904) 645-6457.