Getting your first set of aligner trays is an exciting step toward a straighter smile! However, it’s important to follow specific instructions to ensure that your treatment goes smoothly. Below are the key steps you should follow as a patient using aligners for the first time.

1. Put Your Trays In Correctly

When you first receive your Invisalign trays, it’s important to place them properly. Each tray is designed to fit your teeth snugly, so make sure you:

• Check each tray’s fit: Make sure each tray fits securely and comfortably in place. Confirm there is no space between the teeth and the aligner while wearing the tray.
• Push the trays into place: Gently press down on your trays with your fingers to ensure a proper fit. Use chewies to push aligner into place and ensure proper fit.
• Consider using a PUL tool to remove aligners and prevent deformation of the aligner if you have many attachments.
• Wear your trays for 20-22 hours a day: You should wear your trays almost all day, taking them out only to eat, drink, brush, and floss (American Association of Orthodontists, 2022).

2. Take Care of Your Trays

Keeping your trays clean is important for your oral health and your treatment’s success. Follow these care tips:

• Clean your trays daily: Use a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water to gently clean your trays. Avoid using toothpaste, as it can scratch the plastic.
• Rinse trays after each use: Rinse your trays with water before reinserting them after meals or drinks.
• Store trays in a case: When you’re not wearing your trays, always store them in the provided case to avoid losing or damaging them.
• Do not use a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean aligners
• Consider using OAP Cleaner to clean aligners.

3. Remove Your Trays When Eating or Drinking

Invisalign trays need to be removed when you eat or drink anything except water. This is because food and drink can get trapped in the trays, leading to bacteria buildup and potential stains. Make sure to:

• Remove trays before eating: Take out your trays before every meal or snack.
• Drink only water with your trays in: Avoid drinking beverages like coffee, tea, or soda while wearing your trays.

4. Change to Your New Trays on Schedule

Your Invisalign treatment will require you to switch to a new set of trays every 1-2 weeks, depending on your treatment plan. To stay on track:

• Stick to your schedule: Change your trays every 2 weeks. Consider changing at night time so you are wearing new aligners continuously.
• Track your progress: Keep track of which set of trays you are on to avoid confusion. Always save the last set of aligners.

5. Take Care of Your Teeth and Gums

Proper oral hygiene is just as important as wearing your trays. To prevent discomfort or issues, be sure to:

• Brush and floss after meals: Clean your teeth thoroughly before putting your trays back in to avoid food particles getting stuck between your teeth and the aligners.
• Use fluoride toothpaste: This helps maintain your tooth enamel and keeps your mouth fresh (American Dental Association, 2022).

6. Report Any Issues to Your Dentist

During your treatment, you may encounter minor issues, such as discomfort or difficulty getting the trays to fit properly. Don’t worry—this is normal! However, if you notice anything unusual, it’s best to:

• Contact your dentist: If you have any pain, if your trays don’t fit, or if you have trouble with the aligners, your orthodontist will help you resolve the issue.

Takeaways

• Wear your trays 20-22 hours a day for the best results.
• Remove trays when eating or drinking anything other than water.
• Clean your trays daily to keep them in good condition.
• Change trays on time to ensure your treatment stays on schedule.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to keep your mouth healthy during treatment.

Following these instructions will help ensure that your aligner treatment works as planned and that you achieve your desired results. Always remember to consult with your dentist if you have any questions or concerns during your treatment.

Citation:

• American Dental Association. (2022). Oral hygiene and orthodontics. Retrieved from https://www.ada.org