8 things every Invisalign® patient needs to know

Every Invisalign® patient has questions about how clear aligner treatment will affect their day-to-day life. We’re proud to say the impact on your lifestyle is minimal when you straighten your teeth using the Impress treatment method.

We use Invisalign® combined with the hybrid-treatment method Impress offers. The winning approach means you’ll be on your way to a smile you love in months. To help you on your way, here are 8 questions we think every Invisalign® patient should know.

Your face shape can change when using Invisalign®

You might not believe it, but it’s possible your face shape will change during the course of your treatment. This is because as your Invisalign® get to work, applying pressure to your teeth, moving them into the correct position, the shape of your jaw and, subsequently, your cheekbones may look different.

Keeping a transformation folder of photos is a great way to compare your face shape and structure prior to starting treatment, throughout your journey, all the way to when your clear aligner treatment comes to an end.

The 30-minute rule with Invisalign®

It’s a simple rule, used to help you maintain the 20-22 hours of daily wear you should adhere to in order to achieve the best results. The aim is to eat, and then allow a window of time so that your mouth's pH level can neutralise before you brush, floss and reinsert your clear aligners. This waiting period is one of the first lines of defence against tooth decay.

Invisalign® staining

Just like your teeth, certain foods and drinks can stain your aligner trays. Your clear aligners are nearly transparent, which allows you to straighten your teeth discreetly. Avoid highly coloured foods such as turmeric, chilli powders, coffee and carbonated soft drinks to avoid staining. Always rinse your aligner and mouth before putting your aligners back in after eating.

Water is key when wearing aligners

Drinking as much water as possible throughout the day is vitally important to ensure your teeth and gums are hydrated, and to avoid the possibility of staining your dental aligner. It allows a healthy pH balance to be maintained, keeping your mouth from drying out and preventing the arrival of bad breath. If you are struggling to put your aligner back in after eating, sipping water will rehydrate your mouth and teeth, making it a smoother transition.

Getting used to aligners can be tough

The first few weeks of wearing aligners can be tough for some patients, because it’s a change to have to wear something for 22 hours a day. The main thing to keep in mind is the reason you decided to invest in aligners and the smile you want at the end of it. Don’t be afraid to contact your orthodontist or the medical team via the Impress app to ask questions while you get used to wearing your Invisalign®.

Prepare a clear aligner survival kit

The Impress kits come with your very own travel case, an outie device and chewies to help you get used to the new aligners. We suggest keeping it all in a travel-size bag along with a travel toothbrush, toothpaste and floss so you can keep on top of your hygiene routine, post-meal, anywhere you go.

Commitment is key when using aligners

One of the easiest ways to secure the smile you’ve been dreaming of is to follow the rules your orthodontist gives you and to keep the device in for the recommended time. Changing habits can be one of the most difficult things to do if you’re starting treatment as a teen or busy adult, but the reality is– it’s the only way to achieve the results you want.

Can you kiss with Invisalign®?

There is a prize for your commitment to getting straight teeth! It might take a little getting used to, but kissing with your Can you kiss with Invisalign® is not a problem. The design of the device has been crafted with discretion in mind, meaning it shouldn’t stop you from that first date kiss. Who knows, maybe your date is worth a little practice.

If you would like to find out more about getting started with Invisalign® at Impress, come and visit us, look for a clinic near you, or message us on WhatsApp to schedule an appointment today.