Clear aligners have become very popular among people who want to straighten their teeth without metal braces. More people in Hanford, California, are choosing clear aligners to get their perfect smile. But, there are a few mistakes that people make with clear aligners. One big mistake people make is not wearing the aligners enough.
Clear aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours every day to work properly. Some people think it is okay to take them off for a little while, but that can slow down the progress. Another problem is feeling uncomfortable when starting a new aligner. It is normal to feel a little sore, but some people stop wearing the aligners when this happens.
Also, it is very important to keep both your aligners and your teeth clean. If you do not clean them well, you could get cavities or gum problems. To ensure your orthodontic treatment goes as planned, it is a good idea to meet with a dentist in Hanford, CA. They can check your progress and provide advice on what mistakes to avoid.
Not cleaning aligners properly.
When clear aligners are not cleaned well, it can lead to several problems. The aligners fit tightly on the teeth, which makes it easy for food bits, saliva, and bacteria to get stuck. This can cause plaque to build up, which can further lead to cavities and gum problems. Therefore, your treatment, which you have spent money on, might not even work properly.
Aligners can also look cloudy or stained, ruining their appearance. If they are not cleaned, they can start to smell bad too. This can make you feel less confident. It is important to clean your aligners every day. The method is simple– just use a toothbrush and some mild soap and they should be as good as new daily.
Eating with aligners
Eating while still wearing your aligners can damage them. Food can put pressure on your aligners, which might cause cracks or breaks. Moreover, small food bits can get stuck between the aligners and teeth. Many people also forget to brush their teeth afterward, letting bacteria grow, which can cause cavities.
To keep your aligners in good condition, you should always remove them from eating or drinking anything except plain water. This protects the aligners and lets you enjoy food without worry. After you have finished eating, do not forget to rinse your aligners and brush your teeth. This helps remove stuck food and keeps the teeth and aligners clean.
Not storing aligners properly
People often leave their aligners in unsafe places like napkins, pockets, or on open surfaces. These habits can be problematic for various reasons. For example, you might forget about placing aligners on a napkin during your meal and accidentally throw them away.
Putting them in a pocket can be risky as well, as they might fall out without notice. Leaving aligners on tables or counters for too long exposes them to dirt and bacteria, which can harm both the aligners and oral health. Aligners should always be stored in a protective case when you are not wearing them.
Changing aligners too late or too soon
Each aligner is designed to move your teeth a little bit over a specific time, usually 1 to 2 weeks. If you switch aligners too soon, your teeth might not have moved enough for the next tray to fit properly. Waiting too long to change aligners is also a problem as it can slow your progress. It is best to always follow your dentist’s instructions about when to change aligners.
Maximize your Invisalign success in Hanford!
Avoiding a few common pitfalls that people commonly make after getting clear aligners can improve the quality of your treatment. Consult your dentist for personalized guidance and ensure optimal results!
