Introduction (General Care Instructions)
Congratulations on starting your Invisalign journey! These clear aligners offer a discreet and effective way to straighten your teeth. To ensure your treatment progresses smoothly and successfully, it”s crucial to follow these post-operative instructions carefully. Your commitment to wearing and caring for your aligners as directed will directly impact your results.
Common Post-Op Symptoms & How to Manage Them
When you first start wearing new aligners, or switch to a new set, it”s common to experience some temporary discomfort, pressure, or soreness. This indicates that your teeth are beginning to move. Here’s how to manage these common symptoms:
- Discomfort/Pressure: You may feel pressure on your teeth, especially during the first few days of wearing a new set of aligners. This is normal. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate this discomfort. Take them as directed on the packaging.
- Soreness of Teeth and Gums: Your teeth and gums may feel tender. Eating soft foods for the first few days after switching to a new aligner set can be helpful. Avoid biting directly on hard or crunchy foods.
- Irritation: Occasionally, the edges of the aligners might irritate your gums, tongue, or cheeks. If this occurs, you can use orthodontic wax (similar to what”s used for braces) on the irritating edge of the aligner to create a smoother surface. If irritation persists, contact our office.
Wearing Your Aligners
Consistency is key with Invisalign. For optimal results, you must wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours per day, or as specifically instructed by your dentist. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than plain water, brushing, and flossing.
- Insertion and Removal: When inserting, gently push the aligners over your front teeth first, then apply even pressure to seat them over your back teeth. When removing, use your fingertips to gently pull the aligner off your back molars on both sides, then work your way forward. Avoid using sharp objects or excessive force.
- Changing Aligners: Change to your next set of aligners as directed by your dentist, typically every one to two weeks. It can be helpful to switch to a new set before bed to allow your teeth to adjust overnight.
Oral Hygiene and Care
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is vital during your Invisalign treatment to prevent cavities and keep your aligners clear and clean.
- Brushing and Flossing: Always remove your aligners before eating or drinking (except water). After eating, brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before reinserting your aligners. Food particles trapped under aligners can lead to cavities.
- Cleaning Aligners: Clean your aligners every time you remove them. You can use a soft toothbrush with mild, clear soap or non-abrasive toothpaste and lukewarm water. Gently brush the aligners inside and out. Rinse them thoroughly before reinserting. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic. Do not use harsh chemicals like bleach or alcohol.
- Storage: When not in your mouth, always store your aligners in their protective case. This prevents them from being lost, damaged, or exposed to bacteria.
Dietary Restrictions and Recommendations
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that you can remove your aligners to eat, so there are generally no food restrictions. However, it”s important to:
- Remove Aligners for Eating: Always take out your aligners before eating any food or drinking anything other than plain water.
- Brush Before Reinserting: Ensure your teeth are clean before putting your aligners back in to prevent staining and decay.
Medications and Pain Management
For any discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are usually sufficient. If you experience persistent or severe pain, please contact our office.
Activity Restrictions (Physical Activity, Work, etc.)
Invisalign treatment generally does not impose any activity restrictions. You can continue with your normal daily routines, including sports. If you play contact sports, consider wearing a mouthguard over your aligners for added protection.
When to Contact Us / Emergency Instructions
Contact our office immediately if you experience any of the following:
- An aligner is lost or severely damaged.
- You experience severe or persistent pain that is not relieved by medication.
- An aligner does not fit properly after several days of wear.
- You have any concerns about your treatment progress.
Follow-Up Appointments
Regular check-up appointments with your dentist are crucial to monitor your progress and ensure your Invisalign treatment is on track. Please attend all scheduled appointments as advised.
