If you receive orthodontic treatment with aligners like Invisalign, some practices may help preserve your teeth longer. The Invisalign cost is worth your money if you take steps to preserve it during the post-treatment phase. Here are some post-treatment practices for teeth aligners:
Use Retainers Daily
After completing aligner treatment, your orthodontist may provide you with retainers. Wearing them according to instructions may keep teeth from returning to their prior positions. Retainers initially keep teeth in the corrected alignment by holding them in place. Once your teeth stabilize, you may only need to wear retainers at night. The use of prescription retainers during the post-treatment phase cements the improvements made during your aligner treatment. Wearing retainers every night on a long-term basis may help maintain results.
Maintain Oral Health
Good oral hygiene during the post-treatment phase prevents bacteria from loosening teeth that your aligners repositioned. Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss once per day. Angle the toothbrush bristles to clean along the gum line and remove plaque that could infect your gums. Wipe your retainers daily with non-abrasive toothpaste and a soft brush to avoid staining. Periodically soak removable retainers in a cleaning solution.
Schedule Checkups
Schedule checkups and cleanings at least twice yearly. Access to professional cleanings every six months may help remove plaque that may not reach. Dentists can identify issues like misaligned bites or loose teeth that could require intervention. They can also monitor oral tissues to keep your mouth healthy. Your dentist can evaluate if you need retainers to sustain results.
Eat Healthy
The foods and drinks you consume may affect your long-term dental health. Foods high in sugar can lead to decay, while acidic foods erode enamel over time. Hard foods like nuts and ice can also damage teeth, while liquids like coffee and wine leave stains. Opt for whole grain bread and pasta, lean proteins, dairy, and water instead. Try to limit soda and other drinks that are bad for your tooth enamel. For more ideas, request tooth-friendly recipes from your dentist.
Explore Retainer Options
Retainer choices include removable models or fixed wire retainers that are bonded behind teeth. Removable retainers allow for easier cleaning and natural speech, while fixed appliances eliminate potential compliance issues. Your orthodontist may direct you on which retainer variety suits your lifestyle. No matter which style your orthodontist prescribes, aftercare preserves Invisalign corrections. Wearing retainers is a long-term habit to develop to protect straightened teeth to support the Invisalign cost.
Clean Retainers Properly
The orthodontist who provided your aligners may advise on proper retainer cleaning. Most removable retainers can handle gently brushing with a non-abrasive paste or soaking in a professional cleaning solution. Keep retainers away from cleaners that contain alcohol. Do not wash retainers in the dishwasher, as the heat can cause warping. Rinse retainers before placing them back in your mouth. Protect Invisalign’s progressive effects by following retainer maintenance rules. The trifecta of daily brushing, professional treatment, and appropriate retainer cleaning helps fight off oral hygiene issues.
Monitor Teeth Alignment
You may need to regularly examine your teeth for signs of shifting alignment. Emerging gaps or rounding of previously straightened teeth indicate loss of alignment. Early detection of minor dental movement allows orthodontists to take corrective action. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist if you notice trouble spots upon visual inspection. Most follow-up alignments require just wearing new customized retainers. Consistent documentation tracks what your straightened teeth are intended to look like. Taking proactive steps protects your asset of a straighter smile.
Take Advantage of Affordable Invisalign Cost Today
Wearing retainers based on your orthodontist’s instructions discourages teeth from returning to their previous positions. You can maintain results with ideal oral hygiene rituals and smart dietary choices. Consistent retainer cleaning keeps aligners odor-free, while periodic checkups get rid of plaque. Top-rated clinics make cosmetic orthodontic care flexible and accessible to all through affordable Invisalign cost. Contact an orthodontist today to discuss retainer routines that support your Invisalign goals.