Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Invisalign.
If you’ve chosen Invisalign to straighten your teeth, you already know it’s a comfortable and discreet alternative to traditional braces. However, to achieve the best results, it’s crucial to use and care for your aligners properly.
At Dental Artistry, we’ve noticed some common mistakes patients make when using Invisalign, and we want to help you avoid them to ensure your treatment is a success.
🦷 1. Not Wearing Your Aligners Long Enough
❌ Mistake:
Removing aligners too frequently or not wearing them for the recommended time.
To be effective, Invisalign must be worn for at least 22 hours a day.
✅ Solution:
Only take them out for eating, drinking (except water), brushing, and flossing.
Always carry your case to avoid losing them when removed.
Wearing them less can significantly extend your treatment time.
🌟 2. Not Cleaning Your Aligners Properly
❌ Mistake:
Brushing them with abrasive toothpaste or not cleaning them regularly.
This can cause stains, bacterial buildup, and bad odor.
✅ Solution:
Clean your aligners twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water.
Use specialized aligner cleaners or effervescent tablets at least once a week.
Avoid hot water and colored mouthwashes.
🍽️ 3. Eating or Drinking (Except Water) with Aligners On
❌ Mistake:
Eating or drinking while wearing aligners can stain or deform them.
Sugary or acidic drinks can get trapped and cause cavities.
✅ Solution:
Always remove aligners before eating or drinking.
Brush your teeth after meals before reinserting them.
If brushing is not possible, rinse your mouth with water.
💧 4. Neglecting Oral Hygiene
❌ Mistake:
Placing aligners back in without brushing after eating.
This leads to plaque buildup and bacteria inside the aligner.
✅ Solution:
Brush and floss after every meal.
At the very least, rinse your mouth with water before putting the aligners back.
Poor hygiene can cause bad breath and cavities.
⏱️ 5. Not Following the Aligner Change Schedule
❌ Mistake:
Forgetting to change aligners on time as instructed by your orthodontist.
This can slow down treatment progress and affect results.
✅ Solution:
Set reminders on your phone or use an app to track your schedule.
Change aligners on the specified day to maintain planned tooth movement.
🗂️ 6. Losing or Damaging Your Aligners
❌ Mistake:
Leaving aligners in random places without the case.
This increases the risk of loss, breakage, or warping.
✅ Solution:
Always carry your case with you and store aligners immediately when removed.
If lost or damaged, contact your orthodontist as soon as possible.
Need advice on how to get the best results with Invisalign?
Schedule your consultation at Dental Artistry and receive personalized guidance to keep your aligners in top shape.
