Invisalign is a great orthodontic treatment option for both teens and adults who prefer invisible braces.
However, with all orthodontic appliances comes care and responsibility, even after the treatment is over.
The care guidelines post-Invisalign consist of:
Wearing your retainer (if applicable)
Now that you have your ideal smile, it’s now time to retain that smile.
Just like metal braces wearers, those treated with Invisalign often have to wear a custom retainer for a certain amount of time.
Both Invisalign and braces may have to wear their retainer semi-permanently for the first year or so. After that, your orthodontist may instruct that you wear your retainer every night or at least a certain amount of hours to keep your pearly whites in their new position. After all, teeth do and will shift.
It is also essential to regularly clean and store your retainer when not wearing. Your orthodontist will provide cleaning guidelines and suggestions.
Do not try to eat or drink anything other than water while wearing your retainer. Do not share retainers either. These devices are specifically fit for your mouth only. Keep retainers away from dogs to ensure they don’t get lost, chewed up, or even swallowed.
Paying extra attention to oral hygiene
Whether you have a retainer or not, ex Invisalign wearers need to stick to oral hygiene more than ever. Merely having beautiful, straight teeth will not prevent oral problems from occurring. Plaque and bacteria are still present.
After having Invisalign trays covering your teeth for hours-on-end, your teeth are getting used to their “new” environment and are getting a chance to “breathe.” Teeth at this stage especially need to be brushed twice a day and flossed to ensure any buildup of bacteria is taken care of.
Sticking to regular dental appointments
Again, having straight teeth does not mean one is free of any further dentist or orthodontist appointments. Regular dental cleanings, as well as occasional checkups with your orthodontist, are still necessary.
Both of these appointments are important in ensuring your oral health is where it needs to be, not just in terms of the appearance of your teeth, but also in preventing various oral-related problem.
The bottom line is, treatment after Invisalign does not mean paying less attention to your oral health but more.
It is crucial to stay true to your oral hygiene, attend dental and orthodontic appointments, wear a retainer if given, and to generally follow any guidelines from your dentist and/or orthodontist to ensure a beautiful and healthy outcome post-treatment.