FAQs about daily life with Invisalign answered

When it comes to wearing invisible aligners, you are likely to have some questions. Especially if this is your first time undertaking orthodontic treatment. Invisible aligners are designed to be very different from traditional braces, which means the patient is more involved in their daily wear than they would be with a fitted brace.

If you are considering the use of invisible aligners but want to know more about what their daily wear will entail, please read on and, we will aim to provide you with a straightforward guide.

At Clear Braces Direct, our team has specialised in the use of invisible aligners, particularly Invisalign London, and will always aim to ensure that our patients know exactly how to use any orthodontic tool we prescribe to get the best out of the treatment. After all, we want your smile to straighten just as much as you do!

With that in mind, here, we answer common queries that our past patients have had about the daily wear of Invisalign London.

How often do I need to wear them?

For Invisalign London to work as needed, you will have to wear the aligners for a minimum of 22 hours per day or as directed by our team. This will ensure that they have the appropriate amount of time to apply the required pressure to your teeth in order to move them. If you do not wear the aligners for the prescribed time, then your teeth may fail to move or they may revert to their former positions.

How do I carry them when they are not in my mouth?

When you are at work or university, you may be required to take your aligners out. You will need to place them into the carry case provided. Do not simply toss them into your bag or pocket, as this can cause them to become damaged. The carry cases are designed to ensure that the temperature within the case does not cause warping, whilst also protecting the aligners from external stressors that could damage them.

Is cleaning them difficult?

No, the cleaning of invisible aligners is not difficult. In fact, all you need to do to keep your aligners clean is rinse them under a cold water tap twice a day and remove any stuck-on food debris with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Do not rinse them under hot water, as this may cause them to warp out of shape.

Do I need to take them out when I eat?

Yes, you will need to take the aligners out when you eat or drink anything that is not cold water; this is to prevent the aligners from becoming damaged or stained. Just remember to brush your teeth after eating and before putting your aligners back in to ensure that tooth decay and gum disease do not develop.

Do I need to use a straw when drinking while wearing the aligner?

There is nothing to stop you from using a straw whilst drinking when wearing the aligner. Just be sure that you aren’t consuming cold water or anything hot or high in tannins. As mentioned earlier, hot beverages can cause warping and high tannins can cause staining.