A straighter smile doesn’t happen overnight. It takes preparation, patience, and commitment. Every great journey begins with a few simple steps to make the ride smooth and easy from the start. That is why it’s important to know what you should do to prepare for Invisalign treatment. Read on to learn what you need to ensure a successful experience.
Know Which Questions to Ask
Don’t worry if you feel in the dark about Invisalign. While the concept seems straightforward, you likely have many questions about the process and what to expect along the way. Before your first visit, prepare a few questions so you get the answers you need. These might include:
- How long will I need to wear Invisalign?
- Will I notice a change in the way I speak or eat during treatment?
- How much will it cost to straighten my teeth with Invisalign, and does dental insurance cover it?
- How often will I need to visit for follow-up appointments?
Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine
Whether you’re already a pro at brushing twice daily and flossing before bed, improving your oral hygiene routine before starting Invisalign helps. Start cleaning your teeth after every meal, especially since you will need to do this (or at least rinse your mouth) before reinserting your aligners. This prevents food debris from transferring to your Invisalign and causing stains and bacterial buildup.
Cut Back on Snacking
Are you the kind of person who snacks throughout the day instead of eating three specific meals? If so, it’s time to make a change. Invisalign requires you to wear your trays 20-22 hours a day. You can take them out at mealtime and enjoy a few (about 2) snacks, but if you keep reaching for something to chew every few hours, you’ll put your smile at risk of delay. Start cutting back on these additional snacks now so it’s not so hard once you start Invisalign treatment.
Pack a Dental Kit to Keep With You
Wearing Invisalign means always being prepared to clean your teeth and aligners. To do this successfully and avoid damage or delay, pack a small dental kit that you can keep with you. A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, extra aligners, an over-the-counter pain reliever, a small bottle of mouthwash, and a protective case are all you need. Having these on hand when you need them, whether you’re at work or on the road, will keep your smile and aligners cleaner and healthier throughout treatment.
If you’re ready to set the stage for a smooth, successful Invisalign process, make sure you’re prepared before you even start. With your dentist’s help and careful guidance, you’ll soon see the results that can last a lifetime.
About the Practice
iSmile Dental’s Fort Worth offices make it easy for patients to get the care they need from a team of friendly, talented, and respected dentists. With affordable, accessible services for patients of all ages, we provide Invisalign smile-straightening treatment to help realign teeth and create functional, healthy bites. If you’re considering clear aligners to enhance your smile and oral health, visit our website to schedule an appointment.