You already know about the benefits associated with Invisalign treatment, many of which probably led you to decide this option over traditional braces. But are you aware of what you might need to do to prepare for your new aligners? Although the process is straightforward, following a few simple tips can ensure you are ready to go on the day you receive your trays.
Start Brushing After Every Meal
Once you begin wearing Invisalign, you’ll need to clean your teeth after every meal. This will be easier to do if you incorporate this step into your daily routine before starting treatment.
Proper cleaning of your teeth reduces the risk of bacteria and food particles transferring to your trays when you reinsert them. Rinsing your aligners is also necessary to keep the risk of cavities and gum disease low.
Create a Small Dental Kit
When wearing Invisalign, you’ll need to keep a small dental kit on hand to make living with these aligners easier. You can include:
- A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste
- Dental floss
- A small bottle of mouthwash
- A protective case for your aligners
- Over-the-counter pain reliever
- A small orthodontic tool to help remove your aligners (if needed)
Reduce How Often You Snack
For Invisalign to be successful, you must wear your trays 20-22 hours a day. This ensures that your teeth move in the right direction over the projected timeframe. If you spend more time without your aligners because you are snacking, it can delay treatment.
You are supposed to remove your trays each time you eat or drink anything other than water. Dentists expect you to remove them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but snacks should be minimized to ensure your teeth continue to move accordingly.
Plan Your Budget & How You Will Pay for Treatment
Your dental insurance may or may not cover Invisalign. Knowing whether you will be required to pay out of pocket or upfront is essential, especially if the cost is a concern. If your insurance does offer coverage, it will likely pay only 50%, leaving you responsible for the remaining balance. If you cannot pay the full amount on the day of your treatment, you will need to have an alternative plan in place.
Depending on your dentist, they may offer flexible financing or an in-house membership plan you can enroll in to lower your expenses and better budget.
Preparing for Invisalign can make the process much easier once you get started. Following these tips will put you on the path to success, which means a straighter, healthier smile.
About the Author
Dr. Udoka Holinbeck is a highly trained holistic dentist who provides a wide range of services designed to improve patients’ smiles and boost their confidence. Devoting years to continuing education and advanced training, she offers Invisalign orthodontic treatment to help individuals enjoy life with straighter teeth and better oral health. Do you want to learn more about Invisalign? Visit our website or call (262) 746-7152 to schedule an appointment.