At House of Orthodontia, we want you to feel confident and comfortable every step of your smile journey. If you’re new to clear aligners, understanding the right instructions on wearing Invisalign is key to getting the best results safely and efficiently.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from how to wear and care for your aligners to common dos and don’ts we share with all our Invisalign patients.
Getting Started with Invisalign
Once we provide your first set of aligners, your treatment officially begins. Each tray is custom-made to fit your teeth at their current stage and gently move them toward their ideal alignment.
Here’s how to get started:
- Wear your aligners for 20–22 hours per day. Invisalign only works if you wear the aligners consistently. Remove your trays only when eating, drinking (anything other than water), brushing, or flossing.
- Switch aligners as directed. Typically, you’ll change trays every 1 to 2 weeks based on your personalised plan. We’ll let you know the exact schedule at each check-up.
- Store aligners properly. Always place your aligners in the case when not in use. Never wrap them in napkins or leave them out. They’re easy to lose or damage.
How to Insert and Remove Your Aligners
Correct insertion and removal will help prevent damage and ensure the trays fit snugly over your teeth.
- To insert: Place the aligner over your front teeth and press it into place using your fingertips. Work your way toward the back teeth until the aligner snaps in completely. Don’t bite it into position.
- To remove: Start from the molars in the back. Gently pull the tray away from your teeth with your fingertips, working forward until it’s fully removed.
Tip: If your aligners feel tight, use Invisalign chewies to help them seat properly.
Eating and Drinking While Wearing Invisalign
Invisalign aligners are removable, which means you can still enjoy your favorite foods, but with a few precautions.
- Remove aligners before eating or drinking anything but water. Hot liquids can warp the plastic, and food particles can stain or damage the trays.
- Brush before putting them back in. Food and sugar trapped under aligners can lead to tooth decay or discoloration.
- Keep aligners safe during meals. Use your Invisalign case at all times to avoid loss or breakage.
Pro tip: Rinse your mouth and aligners with water if brushing isn’t immediately possible after eating.
Cleaning and Caring for Your Aligners
Keeping your aligners clean is essential to your oral health and the success of your treatment.
- Clean them twice daily. Use a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap or an Invisalign cleaning crystal solution. Avoid toothpaste as it can scratch the plastic.
- Rinse after removal. Always rinse aligners with lukewarm water after taking them out to remove saliva and bacteria.
- Avoid hot water. Heat can distort the shape of the trays, rendering them ineffective.
We recommend setting a daily routine. Clean them when you brush your teeth in the morning and before bed.
What to Expect When You Start Wearing Invisalign
It’s completely normal to experience some discomfort or pressure when you wear a new set of aligners. This means the aligners are working!
Here’s what to expect:
- Mild soreness or pressure. Usually lasts a day or two when starting a new tray. Over-the-counter pain relief can help.
- Slight lisp or speech adjustment. You might notice a change in your speech initially, but most patients adjust within a few days.
- Increased saliva or dry mouth. Your mouth needs time to get used to the aligners. Stay hydrated and give it a few days to normalize.
If you experience any sharp pain, cracks, or irritation that doesn’t go away, let us know.
Maintaining Your Treatment Schedule
Staying on track is one of the most important parts of Invisalign success. Here’s how we keep your treatment moving forward:
- Follow your wear schedule. Each set of trays is designed to move your teeth a certain amount. Skipping days can delay results or cause discomfort.
- Attend regular checkups. We’ll schedule in-person or virtual visits every 6 to 8 weeks to make sure your progress is on track.
- Use attachments or elastics if prescribed. These small additions help with specific movements. We’ll show you exactly how to use them.
Your commitment directly affects how long treatment takes. Most of our patients complete Invisalign within 12 to 18 months, but timing varies per case.
Retainers After Invisalign
Once your last aligner is done, your smile journey isn’t quite over. Wearing retainers is essential to maintaining your results.
- Wear retainers as instructed. At first, this may be full-time just like your aligners. Over time, you’ll transition to nighttime wear only.
- Keep them clean and stored properly. Treat your retainers just like your aligners to keep them in good shape.
Skipping retainers even briefly can cause your teeth to shift back. We’ll guide you through your retention phase step by step.
Invisalign Tips from Our Team
Once your last aligner is done, your smile journey isn’t quite over. Wearing retainers is essential to maintaining your results.
- Wear retainers as instructed. At first, this may be full-time just like your aligners. Over time, you’ll transition to nighttime wear only.
- Keep them clean and stored properly. Treat your retainers just like your aligners to keep them in good shape.
Skipping retainers even briefly can cause your teeth to shift back. We’ll guide you through your retention phase step by step.
FAQs on Wearing Invisalign
No. Gum sticks to the trays and can damage them. Always remove your aligners before chewing anything.
Try to make up the time, but avoid making it a habit. If you miss more than a day, contact us to reassess your schedule.
We recommend waiting until after Invisalign to whiten for even results, but we can guide you on safe options if you’re interested during treatment.
Yes, especially from coffee, tea, wine, or curry. Always remove trays before consuming these.
Why Follow Instructions on Wearing Invisalign?
Following the correct instructions on wearing Invisalign is what transforms your investment into real, lasting results. At House of Orthodontia, we’re not just giving you clear aligners, we’re giving you a guided, supportive experience from day one.
We’re with you at every step, from your first tray to your final retainer.
Are You Ready to Begin Your Invisalign Journey?
If you’re considering Invisalign or are already on your journey and need support, our team at House of Orthodontia is here to help. Let’s make your smile transformation smooth, successful, and stress-free. With the right guidance and clear instructions on wearing Invisalign, your dream smile is closer than ever.
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Call us at 332-240-0926 (Brooklyn) or 212-392-4789 (Manhattan)
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