If you’re considering Invisalign to achieve a straighter, healthier smile, you may have a lot of questions—how does Invisalign work?, how much is Invisalign?, and is Invisalign worth it? At Smiles Above The Rest, Dr. Ben Pyatt and Dr. Ed Pyatt have helped countless patients in Republic and Buffalo, MO, transform their smiles with this innovative clear aligner system.
While Invisalign offers many benefits over traditional braces, it’s essential to follow the right care routine for the best results. In this guide, we’ll discuss the dos and don’ts of wearing Invisalign aligners to help you make the most of your treatment.
The Dos of Wearing Invisalign Aligners
1. Wear Your Aligners for 20-22 Hours Per Day
For Invisalign to be effective, you must wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day. Taking them out too often or for too long can delay your progress and extend how long Invisalign takes to straighten your teeth.
2. Clean Your Aligners Daily
Bacteria and plaque can build up on your aligners, so it’s crucial to clean them daily. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild soap or Invisalign cleaning crystals to prevent stains and odors.
3. Brush and Floss After Every Meal
Since you’ll be wearing your aligners for most of the day, food particles and bacteria can get trapped between your teeth and aligners. Brushing and flossing after eating prevents cavities and bad breath.
4. Store Your Aligners Properly
When you’re not wearing your Invisalign trays, store them in their protective case. Leaving them exposed to air can lead to bacterial buildup or even loss and damage.
5. Switch Aligners as Instructed by Your Dentist
Dr. Ben Pyatt and Dr. Ed Pyatt will provide you with a personalized treatment plan, including when to switch to a new set of aligners. Sticking to this schedule ensures that Invisalign works as efficiently as possible.
6. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth clean and prevents dry mouth, which can sometimes occur with Invisalign treatment.
The Don’ts of Wearing Invisalign Aligners
1. Don’t Eat or Drink Anything Other Than Water While Wearing Aligners
Unlike braces vs Invisalign, where braces stay on all the time, Invisalign aligners are removable. However, eating or drinking (except for water) while wearing them can cause stains, bad odors, and bacterial buildup.
2. Don’t Use Toothpaste to Clean Your Aligners
Toothpaste can be too abrasive and cause scratches on your aligners, making them appear cloudy. Stick to a gentle cleaning solution.
3. Don’t Skip Your Dental Check-Ups
Even though Invisalign is a self-managed treatment, regular visits to Smiles Above The Rest in Republic & Buffalo, MO, ensure that your progress stays on track. Your dentist can also address any concerns you have about how Invisalign works or how long Invisalign takes.
4. Don’t Leave Your Aligners in Hot Temperatures
Heat can warp your Invisalign trays, making them ineffective. Avoid leaving them in hot water, a car on a sunny day, or near direct heat sources.
5. Don’t Rush or Skip Aligners
Each set of aligners gradually shifts your teeth, so skipping trays or rushing through the process can lead to uneven results. This may even increase the cost of Invisalign if additional corrections are needed.
6. Don’t Smoke While Wearing Invisalign
Smoking can stain and damage your aligners, making them more noticeable and less effective.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost?
One of the most common questions patients ask is, “How much is Invisalign?” or “How much does Invisalign cost?” The answer varies based on individual needs, but at Smiles Above The Rest, our team will provide a detailed breakdown of Invisalign costs during your consultation.
The cost of Invisalign depends on factors like:
- The complexity of your case
- The length of your treatment
- The number of aligners needed
Compared to braces vs Invisalign, Invisalign may have a higher upfront cost, but the convenience, aesthetics, and comfort make many patients say, “Is Invisalign worth it?” Absolutely!
Invisalign Before and After: What to Expect
One of the best parts of Invisalign treatment is seeing your Invisalign before and after results. Many patients at Smiles Above The Rest are amazed at how Invisalign gradually transforms their smiles.
Before Invisalign: Crooked, gapped, or misaligned teeth
After Invisalign: Straighter teeth, improved bite, and a confident smile!
Our expert team, Dr. Ben Pyatt and Dr. Ed Pyatt, will monitor your progress to ensure you achieve the best possible results.
Conclusion
Invisalign is a fantastic alternative to braces, offering a nearly invisible way to straighten your teeth. However, following the proper care routine is crucial for success. By sticking to these dos and don’ts, you’ll maximize the effectiveness of your treatment and enjoy a stunning smile in no time!
If you’re wondering “How much does Invisalign cost?”, “Does Invisalign work?”, or “Is Invisalign worth it?”, contact Smiles Above The Rest in Republic & Buffalo, MO today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ben Pyatt and Dr. Ed Pyatt. Your dream smile is just an appointment away!