How to get the most out of Invisalign in London
So you’ve made the decision to straighten your teeth with Invisalign, you’ve begun the active phase of treatment where your invisible braces will gradually move your teeth to their right position until you have a beautiful, new smile. But successful treatment requires commitment and failure to follow some simple steps may affect the quality and duration of your treatment.
Having treated over 2000 patients over the last tenyears using Invisalign in London, Dr Graham Tinkler recommends a few easy tips to help you get the best results from your treatment.
Full-time wear
In order to be effective, Invisalign aligners are supposed to be worn from 20-22 hours every single day for the duration of the treatment. You can remove them for a total of two hours per day to eat, drink and clean your teeth. If, for any reason you do not wear them for more than two hours, put them on for a full day to make it up: you have to ensure that all the teeth movements have been achieved. You will know your teeth movements are effective when each new set of aligners fits snugly over your teeth and gums.
In contrast, lack of regular wear can cause each set of aligners to fit poorly and eventually compromise the entire treatment.
Attachments
Invisalign treatment is not only about the clear aligners. To take full advantage of their effectiveness, Dr Graham Tinkler will strategically place tooth-coloured attachments on specific teeth in order to help the aligners get a better grip on your teeth. If an attachment breaks or comes off, do not move to your next set of aligners even if it is time –your dentist will have to replace it first.
Storage and cleaning
Do not leave your aligners exposed when you are not wearing them. Instead, store them in their case and keep them away from pets and infants. Make sure to keep them clean. You can brush them with your toothbrush or soak them in a special cleaning solution. Never rinse them with hot water!
Contact us
If you’re interested in Invisalign in London or want additional advice from Dr Graham Tinkler, contact us today to talk through your needs.