Why Your Invisalign Is Not Working

People get Invisalign® teeth-straightening trays for different reasons. The clear aligners can move crooked teeth into the right positions in the mouth. They can also correct bite dysfunctions and jaw misalignments. Most patients have a successful treatment and enjoy brand-new smiles. You can have similar results, especially if you follow what your dentist advises by wearing the trays properly. There are things you should avoid during your treatment.

Typical candidates for Invisalign

One of the most appealing aspects of treating crooked teeth with clear aligners is that just about anyone can wear them. Dentists recommend that patients as young as age 6 or 7 start to work on repairing alignment problems. Teens are also good prospects for aligners, especially those who do not want noticeable metal braces. Adults can benefit from the treatment as well. Straightening teeth with aligners is usually faster than with traditional metal braces. Adults can have a new smile in 18 months or less with this method.

No success? The aligners might not be working

One of the biggest causes of poor results with Invisalign is when the trays do not fit properly over the teeth. The plastic appliance should make good contact with the teeth to put pressure on them and move them. Some aligners might be too loose, while sometimes there is too big of a gap between the aligners and the biting surfaces. If these issues are happening, the dentist will evaluate the patient and take additional X-rays and impressions.

The patient is not wearing them enough

People love Invisalign because the trays are removable. Though patients should wear the aligners for 21 or 22 hours a day, it is wise to take them out while eating or drinking. However, some people may forget to put them back in. Other people become lazy or look for excuses to leave them out. The less time the trays are in the mouth, the longer the treatment will be.

The patient is not cleaning the trays

Plastic aligners do not typically get food caught in them as often as metal braces do. Still, daily maintenance and care are vital. The wearer should take them out for frequent rinsing, especially in the morning and at night. Daily brushing with fluoride-based toothpaste will also help keep the trays clean. The patient can also soak the aligners in a solution of denture cleaner or another product that the dentist recommends. Clean trays are more likely to work effectively and produce straight teeth.

Do your part, get straight teeth

Invisalign clear aligners are a good choice for people with crooked teeth and bite problems. This does not mean the trays will automatically work the way the dentist intends. There are also steps you must take to ensure they move your teeth properly and that you get everything out of the treatment. These tips will help you achieve the goals you have set, cosmetically and for your oral health. Talk to your dentist today if you have concerns or questions about your clear aligners.

Request an appointment here: https://whiteflintfamilydental.com or call White Flint Family Dental at (301) 273-1085 for an appointment in our Rockville office.

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