A recent study confirms that people with straight teeth are seen as more attractive, successful and smarter.
Invisalign was originally developed in 1997. Since then Invisalign treatment has allowed thousands of children, teens, and adults to get beautiful smiles.
However, once you take off the final tray of your Invisalign treatment, there is more you need to do. Here are the most important ways you can take good care of your teeth after Invisalign treatment.
Avoid Certain Foods
Your teeth will likely be sensitive after Invisalign treatment. Give your teeth time to adjust by avoiding foods that may hurt to eat.
This includes hard and crunchy foods such as whole apples, carrots, and chunks of ice.
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene
Now that you have a perfect smile, keep it up with proper brushing and flossing each day. Flossing removes plaque from your teeth which becomes tartar. Tartar can build up and lead to gum disease.
After the Invisalign process, your gums may be sensitive for the next couple of weeks. You can swish warm salt water to ease the discomfort.
Your teeth may also be sensitive now that they are not constantly in an Invisalign tray. Use a toothpaste for sensitivity for the first few weeks.
Read these 5 Invisalign tips that will ensure you get the best results.
Wear an Invisalign Retainer
You might be ready to be free of things in your mouth, but it’s important to wear a retainer to keep your smile straight.
Retainers after Invisalign treatments are like the aligners that you used during Invisalign treatment.
Retainers Keep Teeth in Place
One of the most important reasons to use an Invisalign retainer is to keep teeth in place. Without one, teeth slowly shift back into their original position.
Remember, the Invisalign process changes the placement of your teeth. But it can’t keep them in place. Without tension on your teeth, they will shift back into their original position.
Your dentist will advise you on how often you need to wear a retainer. At first, it may be all the time. Gradually you may wear them less and less until you only need to wear the retainer at night while you sleep.
Retainers Protect Teeth
Another reason to wear your Invisalign retainer is to protect your pearly whites from damage.
Bruxism is the scientific term for teeth grinding. Many people clench or grind their teeth during the day unconsciously. Even more people do it without realizing it at night while they sleep.
Retainers give you a layer of protection. It allows space between your teeth so that they don’t chip and erode during nighttime grinding.
Your retainer takes the brunt force of the grinding. Over time, it wears out or cracks. As a result, you will need to get a new retainer at least once a year.
Regular Dental Checkups
Another thing important aspect of caring for your teeth after Invisalign treatment is going for regular dental checkups.
Frequent dental exams include a deep cleaning and x-rays. Both of these allow your dentist to be aware of the state of your teeth gums. That way, if there are any cavities or other concerns, they can be fixed quickly before the problem becomes more severe.
Regular dental visits ensure that your teeth and gums will be healthy and last for many years to come.
Final Thoughts on Post-Invisalign Treatment
You have invested a lot of time and money into your smile, so make that investment last by following these tips on how to care for your teeth after Invisalign treatment.
Contact Pacific Beach Smile Studio to keep your smile shining brightly.