At first, wearing your Invisalign aligners for 20-22 hours a day may seem like an easy feat. Once you start your treatment, however, you might find it more difficult. Despite this, it continues to be of the utmost importance that you wear your trays as much as possible since they don’t work unless they’re in your mouth. So, if you’re having trouble, keep reading for four tips to help meet your wear time with Invisalign.
Tip #1: Plan Out Your Hours of “Free Time”
With a limited amount of “free time,” it’s essential that you use those hours wisely. Something that many patients find helpful is designating a certain amount of time for each meal (with some wiggle room for brushing and flossing afterward). An example would be: 30 minutes for breakfast, 30 minutes for lunch, 45 minutes for dinner, and 15 minutes for snacks. Of course, you can adjust this guideline as needed based on your unique schedule, your plans for that day, etc.
Tip #2: Don’t Wait to Brush and Floss
Oftentimes, patients don’t brush and floss their teeth immediately after they are done eating. This is a big mistake! To meet the 20-22 hour-a-day goal, it’s crucial that you clean your teeth and your aligners right away.
Tip #3: Multi-Task When You Can
In short, multi-tasking is your friend! For example, don’t wait to soak your aligners with the cleaning crystals until after you’re done eating dinner. Instead, do both at the same time to cut down on the amount of time you aren’t wearing your trays. On a similar note, drink your coffee with your breakfast or lunch instead of separately. It may seem small, but it can make a big difference!
Tip #4: Use the Invisalign App to Track Your Wear Time
One of the easiest ways to stay on track is by using the resources available to you, like the Invisalign app. This tool comes with numerous benefits, including reminders on when to move onto the next set of trays in your series. Plus, it has a built-in timer so all you have to do to track your wear time is press a button!
About the Doctor
Dr. Vy Tran’s nearly decade of experience in the dental field began at the University of Maryland at Baltimore, which is where she earned her doctorate. Due to her continual pursuit of advanced training, she is now Invisalign Certified! Plus, she is an active member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners and has completed courses at the prestigious Pankey Institute. If you have any questions about the Invisalign treatment process or you’d like to schedule a consultation to start your teeth-straightening journey, visit her website or call (410) 729-9090.