4 Tips to Help You Successfully Prepare for Invisalign

Are you committing to undergoing Invisalign treatment to straighten your teeth? Depending on your situation, you’ll be able to achieve your dream smile quickly and discreetly in about 12 to 18 months. However, you’ll want to ensure a smooth process so that you remain stress-free throughout the entire experience. Keep reading to learn four important tips on how to prepare for Invisalign!

#1: Avoid Snacking Often

One of the most important rules of your treatment is the 22-hour wear time. The only way your clear aligners will work is by remaining in contact with your teeth every day. This means you won’t have much time to snack repeatedly throughout the day, as this can interfere with the effectiveness of your treatment. To keep yourself full, you should consider implementing a well-balanced and nutrient-dense diet consisting of lean proteins, dairy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

#2: Begin Brushing Your Teeth After Mealtime

Once you’ve finished eating a meal, you’ll have to brush both your teeth and clear aligners before wearing them again. This will protect your smile and trays from debris and bacteria that can cause decay over time. You might consider starting this habit early on, that way you can already feel familiar with your cleaning routine before you even get your first aligners. Whether you’re out with friends or dining at a restaurant, you’ll be sure to keep your pearly whites stain- and bacteria-free at all times!

#3: Collect All of Your Essential Supplies

Although you may have a toothbrush and toothpaste at home, you’ll need to have cleaning tools to brush your smile and aligners throughout the day. To stay on top of your oral health, you should create an on-the-go dental hygiene kit with all of your essential travel-sized items. You might also consider getting dental wax and over-the-counter pain relievers to help easily manage any mild discomfort you may experience throughout your treatment.

#4: Plan Out the Financials

Another way to make life with Invisalign an easier process is to figure out how you’ll pay for it ahead of time. Be sure to consult your dental team about your financing options, as some dental insurance plans don’t cover Invisalign. However, you might be eligible for alternative payment methods, such as CareCredit, to space out the overall cost into monthly installments. By planning out the financials early on, you can have one less thing to worry about later on!

By implementing these few tips, you can be well-prepared for when it’s time to start your Invisalign treatment. Once you’ve gone through the entire series of clear aligners, you’ll be able to show off your perfectly straight smile for many years to come.

About the Author

Dr. Jason Aptaker earned his dental doctorate from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. He also regularly pursues continuing education to expand his techniques so that his patients receive the best care they deserve. He offers a wide selection of high-quality and comprehensive services, including Invisalign. If you’d like to know how else to prepare for Invisalign treatment, visit his website or call him at 732-223-9199.