Orthodontic treatment is common, with around four million Americans currently wearing braces at any given time. While traditional metal braces have long been the standard for straightening teeth, people now have the option to choose clear aligners as a more discreet and comfortable alternative. 

These nearly invisible trays offer a range of benefits, from improved aesthetics to easier maintenance — making them an attractive option for both teenagers and adults seeking to enhance their smiles. While Invisalign is an excellent solution for most cases, there are several things you can do to maximize the effectiveness of your treatment. 

Read on to learn how to improve your Invisalign journey and where to find the best cosmetic dentist in Mountain View for Invisalign.

Getting the Most From Your Invisalign Treatment

Embarking on your Invisalign journey is an exciting step towards achieving the smile you've always wanted. To get the best possible results, it's important to follow a few key steps that can maximize the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment and help you ensure you’ll love your final result.

Understand When to Wear Your Invisalign Aligners

Wearing your aligners consistently is crucial for the success of your treatment. You should wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day — removing them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and cleaning your teeth. This means keeping them in while you sleep, work, and go about most of your daily activities. 

It's important to stick to this schedule as much as possible, as failing to wear your aligners for the recommended time can slow down your treatment progress or even cause setbacks. 

Learn How to Store Your Invisalign Aligners

Proper storage of your Invisalign aligners is important to ensure they are kept clean and maintain their precision shape. When you're not wearing them, always store your aligners in their designated case to protect them from damage and bacteria. You should also make sure to avoid wrapping them in napkins or tissues, as this can lead to accidental disposal and exposure to germs. 

When your aligners are in their case, make sure to keep the case in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources — these environments can warp the aligners and either halt or delay your treatment. 

If you're switching to a new set of aligners, don't discard the previous aligners; instead, clean them thoroughly and store them in a labeled container. This way, if you need to revert to a previous set for any reason, you'll have them on hand. 

Know How to Clean Your Invisalign Aligners

Keeping your aligners clean is important for your oral health and keeping them in the best condition possible. Cleaning steps you should remember include: 

  1. Rinse your aligners every time you remove them to prevent saliva and plaque buildup.
  2. Clean your aligners thoroughly at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and the Invisalign cleanser provided to you by your dentist. 
  3. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp your aligners and cause them not to fit properly. 
  4. Never use toothpaste, which can be abrasive and scratch the aligners.

Regular cleaning keeps your aligners hygienic and helps prevent discoloration and odors — ensuring your treatment remains as discreet and comfortable as possible.

Set Realistic Expectations for Your Invisalign Treatment

While Invisalign can effectively straighten teeth, it's important to understand that results vary depending on individual cases and compliance with the treatment plan. The average treatment duration ranges from 12 to 18 months, but more complex cases may take longer. Additionally, you may not see dramatic changes immediately, as tooth movement occurs gradually. 

Some discomfort or pressure is normal, especially when starting your Invisalign journey and when switching to new aligners. By understanding the timeline of your treatment and potential challenges, you can approach your Invisalign journey with patience and realistic expectations — this will ensure that you are completely happy with your results. 

Find the Best Cosmetic Dentist for Invisalign Treatment in Mountain View

The success of your Invisalign treatment relies on your commitment to follow the treatment plan and correctly maintain your aligners — additionally, the expertise of a dental professional who is a reputable Invisalign provider is also important. 

At Dental Square, Dr. Behdad and her dedicated team are here to guide you through every phase of your Invisalign experience. At our state-of-the-art dental office, you can expect a warm and welcoming environment that prioritizes compassionate dental care. 

Dr. Behdad is an expert in Invisalign orthodontics who will ensure that your treatment progresses smoothly, leaving you with results that you’ll be excited to show off. 

Ready to start your Invisalign journey with the highest-rated Invisalign dentist in Mountain View?