Whatever you do in life, it is important to be prepared well in advance. You would not jump into a pool of water without wearing the right swimming costume or learning how to swim. Naturally, you would not want to start your Invisalign treatment without first taking a few preparatory steps.
If you have decided to get Invisalign prosthodontic treatment in Roanoke, VA, you have a lot to look forward to. The braces are transparent, which makes them discreet. They are easy to wear and remove and are effective in what they do. They can transform your smile for the better!
Invisalign is a highly opted-for treatment in Virginia and with good reason. Read this blog to know how you can prepare for it.
Steps to prepare for Invisalign treatment
Brush more frequently
You should be brushing your teeth twice a day, even without braces. However, when you do get your clear aligners, you need to be brushing more often. You must brush your teeth every time after eating because food is more likely to get stuck and has no way to be rinsed away.
If you want to get into the habit, try brushing every time after eating, starting one week before getting aligners. This way, you will already be used to it when you finally get your braces.
Reduce snacking
While you can still eat and drink whatever you want after getting Invisalign, you should limit the frequency of your snacking. This is because you have to remove your aligners every time you eat something. The more frequently you eat, the more often you have to keep them out.
Dentists recommend wearing Invisalign aligners for at least 20-22 hours a day for maximum benefits. It would be best if you consumed all your calories in your three main meals of the day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Make sure to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet.
Keep a dental kit with you
You must care for your Invisalign at all times, even while traveling. Sometimes, you may not be at home, so it is important to bring a dental kit with you. The kit should contain a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash.
Patients should also remember to pack an extra-strength Tylenol, which is a dental equipment that helps to remove braces, and a storage case for braces. Carrying these items will make the treatment easier for you.
Build your budget
If you are planning to get aligners, make sure you know how much you are going to spend on the treatment. Some insurance policies may cover some part of your treatment, but you may still have to pay the remaining part out of pocket.
Some dental practices have flexible payment options. Make sure to discuss the payment options with the dentist before undergoing treatment. Invisalign is one of the best investments for your smile, but make sure you are ready from day one.
Quit smoking
Smoking or consumption of tobacco in any form is injurious to health in many ways. Smoking can cause many issues for your oral health as well. While wearing Invisalign, you should avoid smoking as much as possible. It can discolor your aligners and stain your teeth.
If you are undergoing treatment for one dental issue, why would you want to do something that gives rise to yet another dental problem (stained teeth)?
Know how to clean aligners
You are allowed to remove your aligners only while eating. Except for that, it is recommended to wear them for 20-22 hours a day. After 22 hours of wear, it is natural for bacteria to accumulate on it. Make sure to rinse the aligners in lukewarm water when you remove them to eat a meal.
Visit your dentist today!
With so many different options available, it can be confusing to decide which alignment method will be best for you. Schedule a consultation with your dentist today to achieve clarity over things.