Invisalign Aligner Care

Invisalign Aligner Care

   How and When to Wear Your Invisalign®

1. Aligners ONLY work when you are wearing them. The only time the aligners should be taken out is when you are eating and drinking something other than water, brushing and flossing, or cleaning them. The goal is to wear them 20-22 hour per day.

2. You will generally be wearing each aligner for two weeks each. On occasion, Dr. Nelson may recommend wearing them for less time.

Aligner Insertion and Removal

1. Make sure you have the proper aligner. “U” for upper and “L” for lower in the proper number sequence. Each aligner is labeled with either a “U” or “L”.

   2. When inserting, gently push the aligners over your front teeth. Then, apply pressure to the tops of the left and right molars until they snap into place.

    3. Make sure each aligner is ALL THE WAY DOWN and fully seated. You should not see any space between the edge of the tooth and the edge of the aligner. Use the “chewies” we gave you at your appointment to help with this.

  4. To remove the aligners, pull off equally on both sides of the back teeth first, and then gently lift off the front teeth. Always rinse the aligners in cold water and store in the proper container. To prevent damage, avoid unnecessary removal. Do NOT use sharp objects to remove your aligners.

Storing Aligners

1. Always place the aligners in the cases provided. Never place aligners in napkins or any other case. Never place it in a pocket that can be sat on. Try not to leave them in hot areas like your car in the summer heat.

2. Save the last aligner you used in your case in case something happens to your current aligners.

Care of Aligners

1. Clean your aligners prior to each insertion. You can use a normal toothbrush or electric toothbrush. Rinse under running water and brush until clean.

2. Never use or soak in alcohol or bleach, as they will be damaged. If aligners are becoming excessively dirty, let our dentists know at your appointments.

3. Do not place aligners in hot water to clean, as they will be damaged.

Other Questions:

1. Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss normally with the aligners out. Brush and floss after eating and before re-inserting aligners. Large food particles may prevent proper insertion.

2. Eating: There are no food restrictions with aligners, however aligners must always be removed when eating.

3. Drinking: except for cold or room temperature water, always remove aligners while drinking anything. Any fluid will get inside the aligner and be held against your teeth possibly for hours and can cause staining or damage your teeth and aligners.

4. Chewing Gum: Do NOT chew gum while wearing aligners.

5. Smoking and Vaping: It is advised NOT to smoke while wearing the aligners. It will stain the aligners and your teeth.