Invisalign has been a revolutionary treatment for many patients seeking to improve their smiles. However, as with any other treatment, some common orthodontic mistakes can be made which could result in less-than-optimal results.
To help you avoid these common pitfalls, we’ve compiled a list of the top six common orthodontic mistakes so you can avoid them and get the best out of your treatment.
Common Orthodontic Mistakes
#1 – Leaving the aligners on all the time
Invisalign is designed to be worn for 20-22 hours each day, but many patients make the mistake of leaving them on all the time. While it may seem like this would be beneficial, it can actually cause the aligners to become loose and not fit as well. This can lengthen the treatment time and reduce the overall effectiveness.
You will need to remove your aligners for about two hours. You can divide this time into smaller increments throughout the day as you eat and brush or for a longer period. Just be sure to brush your teeth and aligners each time you put them back in.
#2 – Wearing the aligners while eating
Eating with your Invisalign aligners is another orthodontic mistake. It can cause them to become stained or even warped. Not to mention, it can be really uncomfortable! Be sure to remove your aligners before eating and brush your teeth afterward.
If you do happen to eat with your aligners in, be sure to brush them as soon as possible. You can also use Invisalign’s cleaning crystals to help remove any build-up.
#3 – Using strong mouthwash and a hard-bristled toothbrush to clean the aligners
Another one of the most common orthodontic mistakes with Invisalign is using strong mouthwash to clean the aligners. This can actually damage the aligners because mouthwash contains alcohol which can make them dry and brittle.
You should only use Invisalign’s cleaning crystals or mild soap to clean your aligners. It’s also not a good idea to use toothpaste because it can be abrasive and damage the aligners. Toothpaste is specifically designed to clean teeth, not plastic.
Also, you need to avoid using a hard-bristled toothbrush as this can scratch the aligners and cause them to become cloudy. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush the aligners. This will help remove any build-up without damaging them.
#4 – Not practicing good oral health habits during treatment
In order to get the best results from your Invisalign treatment, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits. This means brushing at least twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. If you don’t take care of your teeth during treatment, you may end up with cavities or other problems that can delay treatment.
It’s also important to avoid sugary drinks and snacks as these can cause cavities. If you do eat or drink anything sugary, be sure to brush and floss your teeth afterward.
#5 – Not keeping the aligners in a case
When you’re not wearing your Invisalign aligners, it’s important to keep them in a case. This will help protect them from being exposed to bacteria as well as minimize the risk of loss and damage.
If you do happen to lose an aligner, be sure to contact your orthodontist right away. They can provide you with a replacement so you can continue with your treatment.
#6 – Not seeing your orthodontist regularly
Last but not least, one of the most common orthodontic mistakes is not seeing your orthodontist regularly. It’s important to attend all of your scheduled appointments so they can monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments.
If you miss an appointment, you run the risk of lengthening your treatment time as well as not getting the best possible results. Make sure to schedule your appointments in advance and put them in your calendar, so you don’t forget.
Get the Best Invisalign Treatment in Charlotte, NC from the Most Trusted Provider
ClearSmile Charlotte is an Invisalign-only orthodontic practice in Charlotte, North Carolina. We are a team of Invisalign-certified doctors who can help you achieve a beautiful, straight smile in a fast, effective, and affordable way.
When you schedule a FREE consultation, we will sit down with you and discuss your treatment goals. We will then create a custom treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your needs. Once your aligners are ready, we will ship them directly to your door. You’ll be able to start treatment right away in the comfort of your own home!
As a matter of fact, we also offer accelerated Invisalign treatment in Charlotte. We provide several solutions to increase the rate at which bone can remodel and therefore increase the rate at which teeth can move through the bone. Our doctors specialize in a cyclic loading (vibration) appliance that stimulates the bone remodeling cells to accelerate the rate of tooth movement.
We are also certified to provide an Invisalign acceleration procedure known as MOPs—which stands for micro-osteoperforations. Ask us about these acceleration options during your visit!
If you’re ready to achieve the smile of your dreams, contact us today to schedule a FREE consultation. Our office is located at 16633 Birkdale Commons Pkwy, Huntersville, NC. We look forward to meeting you soon!