You finally did it! After months of debating whether or not you should get Invisalign, you decided to go for it. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional metal braces, allowing you to discreetly and comfortably get the straight smile you’ve always wanted. If you want to ensure successful treatment, you must wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours a day. Although that may sound impossible, here are some tips to help make that wear time more realistic.
Why Does the 22-Hour Compliance Rule Matter?
First and foremost, it’s important to understand why this treatment compliance rule matters. Instead of using metal wires and brackets, Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to gently push your teeth into better alignment.
Each set of plastic trays is worn for a predetermined amount of time, usually about two weeks. They apply gentle pressure to a portion of your smile until the entire thing is properly aligned. These micro-movements are spread out over several months or longer, which is why patients typically feel minimal discomfort throughout the treatment process.
This unique process works because each new tray is straighter than the preceding tray. However, the aligners are only effective when they’re in physical contact with teeth. Because of that, Invisalign strongly recommends that the trays are worn for at least 20 to 22 hours per day.
How to Meet the Mandatory Invisalign Wear Time
If you fail to meet the recommended wear time, your treatment can result in complications, discomfort, or even delays. Fortunately, there are many ways you can make the 22-hour wear time more realistic. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Remove your aligners for a certain amount of time every day. Take them out for 15 minutes at breakfast, 30 minutes at lunch, and 60 minutes at dinner. With this schedule, you’ll have enough wiggle room for snacks and maintenance.
- Use an app. For example, the Tray Minder app can help track your wear time throughout the day.
- Multi-task throughout your treatment. While your trays are out for dinner, you can place them in a glass of warm water with cleaning crystals. That way, they’ll get cleaned while you’re eating.
- Establish an oral hygiene routine. Make sure you get into the habit of brushing, flossing, and rinsing right after eating before putting your trays back in.
- Advance to your new set of trays before bed. Doing so will keep your discomfort to a minimum and prevent you from wanting to remove your aligners.
Are you having trouble meeting the 22-hour Invisalign wear time? Don’t worry – you’re not alone. By following the tips outlined above, you can easily accomplish that goal and have a straighter smile in no time!
About the Practice
At Dent-Care Dental Center, we offer exceptional, state-of-the-art, personalized dental services guaranteed to leave you smiling after every appointment. Our team uses the latest technologies and techniques to ensure you get the quality dental care you deserve. If you have any questions about your Invisalign treatment, don’t hesitate to get in touch. For more Invisalign tips, visit our website or call (718) 937-6750.