How to Care for Your Teeth After Invisalign Treatment

Many people visit their dentist or orthodontist each year in hopes of finding out how they can straighten their teeth. Whether it is your first attempt as an adolescent or third attempt as an adult, gone are the days where there is only one option to get your teeth aligned. Metal braces still exist, but there is a more modern and transparent way to fix crooked teeth these days, and that is found with Invisalign.

Invisalign is made of a clear plastic that is molded to fit seamlessly over your teeth. Since the material is practically invisible, using Invisalign can be virtually unnoticeable.

How Invisalign works can be explained in a few easy steps: First, your dentist will create a unique treatment plan which will devise the length of your treatment and exactly how your teeth will move. Then, you will receive your custom aligners which you will wear unless you are eating or brushing your teeth.

Every two weeks you will change your aligners as your treatment progresses and your teeth begin to move. You will continue this process until you have reached your treatment goal and your teeth become straightened.

After you complete your Invisalign treatment, you will want to take care of your new smile. You have put in a lot of time and effort to obtain the look you want so obviously you will want to maintain it. The following explores how to care for your teeth after Invisalign treatment:

• Use a retainer
  A retainer can help to keep your teeth straight after you finish your Invisalign treatment. Your dentist will recommend the right retainer for you to keep your teeth from shifting.
• Avoid certain foods
  You may want to avoid foods that are difficult to chew or are hard and crunchy in nature. Your teeth may be more sensitive and will need an adjustment period after your treatment is finished.
• Routinely brush and floss
  Take care of your oral hygiene by continuing to regularly brush and floss your teeth. You may also want to use a salt water rinse using warm water.
• Consider teeth whitening
  To enhance your smile even more, you may want to consider getting your teeth whitened. This can eliminate any unwanted stains or discoloration you may have.
• Continue to visit your dentist
  Having a regular checkup with your dentist will help you maintain your oral health. It is necessary to have your teeth professionally cleaned, detect any issues, and get further treatment when needed.

Following the instructions of your dentist after your Invisalign treatment is always recommended. By following those instructions and adhering to the above care tips, you will be able to promote a healthy and straight smile for life.