An Invisalign treatment is an excellent option for helping people achieve the smiles they want. However, this treatment is not exactly a miracle worker. While the aligner does its part, the person wearing the device must also work towards achieving their smile goals. If you are considering this treatment, learn more about what your role in the treatment process will look like.

Maintain Good Hygiene

You must maintain the same good hygiene standards you did before the treatment began — there is no exception. While poor hygiene leads to bad breath and tooth discoloration, it can also increase the risk of periodontal disease, or gum disease. Gum diseases target the gums and bones and essentially weaken them, which allows the teeth to shift. With this scenario, the shifting of your teeth will minimize the effect of the treatment.

Keep a Spare Aligner

Invisalign treatments can last for several months. To ensure the retainer remains effective, you will receive replacement aligners periodically. Keep at least one of these old aligners. Should you damage or lose the new aligner, it can take a week or more to receive your replacement. Extended periods of not wearing the aligners can cause treatment setbacks. So, if you have an old pair, you can at least wear them in the meantime to stay on track.

Make a Commitment

The most important thing you can do is to commit to the treatment process. Invisalign will require that you visit the dentist as necessary and that, most importantly, you wear the aligners. How long you need to wear your aligners depends, but you should expect to wear them for at least 20 hours. It is helpful to mentally prepare to commit to this requirement before you begin the treatment.

Care for the Aligner

Do your part by caring for your aligners correctly. Make sure that you keep your aligners in their proper container whenever you are not wearing them. You also want to keep them away from high heat sources, as it can change their shape. Lastly, always remove the aligners when you eat. Eating hard foods, such as nuts, or food with bones with the aligner still intact can lead to a puncture in the aligners.

You do not have to worry, the dental team administering this treatment will provide you with all the tips you need for success. However, should you have additional concerns, do not hesitate to ask questions.