If you are about to start Invisalign for the first time, certain decisions can hinder your progress. Here are common Invisalign mistakes and how to avoid them.

If you're considering using Invisalign, or any orthodontic treatment, it can be a useful tool to help your teeth straighten without the hassle of traditional metal braces. Another option to consider for teeth straightening is traditional braces, but many prefer Invisalign because of their near-invisibility, known as clear braces or clear aligners.

However, all new patients should be aware of some mistakes that can be made while using or wearing this dental device. Just like when wearing braces, consistency and proper care are crucial for an effective Invisalign treatment.

Read on for a list of six common Invisalign mistakes and how you can avoid them for a pleasant Invisalign experience. 

1. You Think Invisalign Is for Adults Only

One of the most common Invisalign mistakes is that people think it's made just for adults and that children with issues like crowded teeth or protruding bottom teeth won't be a good candidate. However, Invisalign has new aligners that the company has developed specifically for the growing, changing mouths of teenagers, too.

Many teens use Invisalign instead of braces because it's much easier to use and not as invasive and obvious when they wear it, unlike traditional braces. Another perk to this device is that your teen can easily remove it before playing sports or participating in any form of rigorous activity.

While Invisalign is not currently available to young children, it's another treatment option if you have a growing teenager. Talk to your teen's dentist to determine if it's right for your child.

2. Wearing Them While Eating or Drinking

The common term for Invisalign is dental aligners, and these helpful tools are easy to remove and re-insert as needed. That means you can eat or drink whatever you like, any time that you choose.

You'll receive new trays periodically during your treatment. However, you should never eat or drink when your Invisalign aligners are in your mouth since it can easily trap food particles and bacteria, causing potential gum disease or tooth decay. Always remove your aligners before a meal, and brush your teeth thoroughly before you re-insert them.

If you eat something crunchy or chewy with Invisalign in your mouth, it could damage the aligners or cause gum and tooth irritation. Not to mention, leaving your aligners in while eating and drinking can feel awkward when you sip or chew.

3. You're Using Toothpaste to Clean Them

You should do your best to keep your Invisalign clean, however, using the wrong products can do more harm than good. Toothpaste is great for your natural teeth, but when it comes to Invisalign aligners, the story changes.

Many brands or formulas of toothpaste can be abrasive and cause damage to your aligners. It may also cause discoloration that can make them obvious when worn over time.

To keep your Invisalign clean, use special Invisalign aligner cleaning tools for better maintenance. You can also clean them using a clear, unscented soap with no added dyes, then rinse them thoroughly with cool water.

4. You Think Invisalign Is a Quick Fix

There are many benefits of Invisalign, particularly its ease of use and clear design. However, you should not assume that these dental aligners are a quick fix for crooked teeth. It takes time for the process to help you achieve perfectly straight teeth.

The length of time it will take to see noticeable improvements varies from patient to patient. Overall, you can expect Invisalign to start working at a minimum of one year, but it may take several years of wearing them to get the full benefit.

Talk to your dentist so they can explain how Invisalign works. If you're patient and follow the usage instructions carefully, you will get the straightening results you're waiting for.

5. You're Not Practicing Good Oral Hygiene

While using aligners like Invisalign, or any other orthodontic treatment, certainly has its benefits, you're still responsible for practicing proper dental and oral hygiene. Aside from never eating or drinking with your aligners in your mouth, you should continue to brush your teeth and floss regularly.

If you ignore your dental health, you'll end up having to deal with other issues like cavities, an abscessed tooth, or gum disease. Invisalign is just one part of your overall dental well-being and good hygiene.

Floss your teeth regularly to prevent bacteria from building up under the aligners when you wear them. You should also keep your Invisalign appliance as clean as possible and as free from debris as possible to keep them clear and clean.

6. You Aren't Wearing Them Long Enough

Just as when starting Invisalign, it's crucial to remember that for the treatment to be effective, consistent wear is key. In order for Invisalign to be effective, the device should be worn for an average of 20 hours per day. If you don't wear them as long as possible, you won't get the straightening benefits that they're designed for.

It may take some time to get used to, but wearing your aligners while you sleep is one of the best ways to get real changes in your teeth. Don't take them out and leave them in their case for too long. Unlike retainers which are typically worn post-treatment, Invisalign aligners need to be worn almost all the time to work effectively.

Do your best to wear your Invisalign as often as you can, and you'll likely get results much faster. As long as you keep them clean and take good care of your teeth and gums, this dental appliance can do wonders for your health, well-being, and your confidence.

Avoid These Common Invisalign Mistakes for Straighter Teeth

With the right practices and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve the results you desire, whether you're interested in traditional braces or Invisalign treatment.

Talk to your dentist if you're interested in finding out whether Invisalign or traditional braces are right for you or your teen.

If you're ready to make the change and get Invisalign  or explore other treatment options, feel free to contact us today and schedule an appointment so we can help you achieve the results you need for healthier teeth and more confidence.