Many people require orthodontic treatment to achieve better oral health, but it’s quite common for them to be hesitant to commit to irremovable and conspicuous traditional braces that restrict them from eating many of their favorite foods. Luckily, removable clear aligners have allowed many patients to straighten out their smiles in a virtually invisible way while allowing them to eat and drink whatever they want. Here are a few tips for preparing for clear aligner treatment so you can enjoy an easier adjustment period and achieve a superior outcome.
Get Used to Brushing More
Clear aligners are designed to fit snugly over the teeth and apply the pressure necessary to shift them into better positions. However, this will also shelter any food trapped between the aligners and your teeth from the mouth’s natural cleaning process, allowing harmful oral bacteria to multiply rapidly and cause tooth decay or dental stains. For this reason, clear aligner patients must thoroughly brush and floss their teeth after each meal before putting their aligners back in. It’s a great idea to get used to brushing and flossing after meals a week or two before treatment begins.
Assemble a Dental Kit
Since you can expect to go about your daily life as usual while wearing clear aligners, putting a dental kit together beforehand can make it much easier to keep your teeth clean when you’re at work or school or out on the town. Start with a small bag or case that can be easily cleaned and fill it with a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and travel-sized mouthwash. It’s also a great idea to pack pain relievers, any orthodontic appliances you will use to remove your aligners, and your protective storage case for when you take your aligners out.
Get Used to Snacking Less
Clear aligners must be worn for twenty to twenty-two hours a day to shift the teeth appropriately. Ideally, they will only be removed for eating and oral hygiene, and since it’s best to wait at least thirty minutes after eating before brushing your teeth, you aren’t left with a lot of room for snacking. Getting used to eating fewer snacks before starting treatment can make the transition easier once you start wearing your clear aligners.
A little preparation can allow you to make an excellent start for your clear aligner treatment. By keeping up with your treatment plan, you can achieve stunning results.
About the Author
Dr. Stephen Tomaszewski earned his dental degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry and completed his Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency while serving in the U.S. Navy. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Slidell, LA, offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as clear aligner treatments. For more tips on preparing to wear clear aligners, contact his office online or dial (985) 641-4444.
