Do you have clear aligners set to arrive sometime soon? Are you considering undergoing Invisalign but aren’t sure how to prepare for it? Fortunately, there are several things you can practice early on to get you familiar with the treatment process before you even start. Read on to learn five tips that can help your experience with Invisalign go as smoothly as possible!
#1: Hold Off on Snacking
Although your treatment won’t involve any dietary restrictions, you will have to remove and clean your clear aligners every time you want to enjoy a meal. Except for pure water, all other foods and drinks can potentially warp and damage your trays, and having to take them off repeatedly can become a hassle. Since you’ll also have to wear your Invisalign for 22 hours a day, it’s best to start cutting back on snacking throughout the day to reduce how often you remove them.
#2: Start Cleaning Your Teeth After Each Meal
Throughout your treatment, you’ll need to regularly brush both your teeth and aligners after each meal. Now is the perfect time to get in the habit, as this will allow you to keep your smile free of debris and decay-causing bacteria. Whether you’re at a restaurant or out with friends, practice oral hygiene after you eat so that it’s familiar whenever you start wearing Invisalign.
#3: Create a To-Go Dental Hygiene Kit
Since you’ll need to brush and floss your teeth more often with clear aligners, you should consider packing an on-the-go oral hygiene kit wherever you go. This way you can quickly and conveniently clean your smile and trays at any moment during the day. Not only will your teeth stay clean and bacteria-free, but your aligners will also be less likely to stain or develop plaque.
#4: Buy Extra Necessary Materials
Your Invisalign pack will mainly consist of your aligners, a storage case, cleaning crystals, and other essentials for your treatment. However, you might consider buying additional items, such as toothpaste for sensitive teeth, extra-strength pain relievers, and soft foods for when your smile is feeling sore. These can make your process much smoother in the long run.
#5: Figure Out the Financials
The cost of Invisalign should be the least of your worries when undergoing your treatment. To avoid any financial complications, be sure to consult your dentist about your payment options. They may be able to help you make the price of your treatment more manageable with alternative financings, such as an in-house membership plan or CareCredit. By understanding how you’ll afford Invisalign, you can be sure to have a much more stress-free experience.
With these few tips, you’ll be better prepared for Invisalign. And if you have any other questions before you begin your treatment, feel free to speak with your dentist for help!
About the Author
Dr. Poorvi Gandhi is a member of the Pennsylvania Dental Association and the American Dental Association. She studied at the Kornberg School of Dentistry at Temple University and regularly seeks continuing education to refine her skills. She provides a vast collection of advanced treatments, including Invisalign. If you’d like to know more about preparing for Invisalign, visit her website or call 215-659-3334.
