7 Daily Habits to Avoid If You’re Wearing Invisalign in Penge
Invisalign in Penge has become a popular choice for straightening teeth discreetly and comfortably. At Green Lane Dental Centre, many of our patients enjoy the flexibility that Invisalign aligners offer. However, certain everyday habits can hinder your treatment progress or damage your aligners. In this blog, we highlight 7 common habits to avoid if you want to make the most of your Invisalign journey.
1. Not Wearing Your Aligners for the Recommended Hours
One of the biggest mistakes people make is removing their aligners too often. Invisalign aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day to be effective. Taking them out too frequently slows down tooth movement and may prolong your treatment time.
Tip: Only remove your aligners when eating, drinking anything other than water, or brushing your teeth.
2. Eating or Drinking with Your Aligners In
Eating or drinking with your aligners on can lead to staining, warping, and bacterial buildup. This is one of the most damaging Invisalign bad habits.
Food particles can get trapped, and hot drinks like tea or coffee can deform the plastic. Always take your aligners out before meals or snacks.
3. Forgetting to Brush and Floss After Meals
Poor oral hygiene can cause plaque buildup, which gets trapped between your teeth and the aligner. This leads to bad breath, decay, and potential gum issues. Your Penge dentist will always emphasise the importance of cleaning your teeth after every meal.
Try this: Carry a travel toothbrush and toothpaste to use when you’re on the go.
4. Not Cleaning Your Aligners Properly
Rinsing your aligners under water isn’t enough. You need to clean them daily to prevent bacteria buildup and discolouration. Avoid using toothpaste, which can be abrasive.
Instead, soak your aligners in Invisalign cleaning crystals or use a gentle, clear soap.
5. Leaving Aligners in the Open
When you’re not wearing your aligners, always store them in their case. Leaving them out exposes them to bacteria, dirt, and potential damage. Worse, they might get thrown away by accident.
If you lose or damage your aligners, visit your dentist in Penge immediately to avoid treatment delays.
6. Smoking or Vaping with Your Aligners In
Smoking or vaping while wearing aligners can cause severe discolouration and leave stubborn odours in the plastic. Even worse, nicotine and tar may affect your oral health and increase your risk of gum disease.
Pro tip: If you’re trying to quit, Invisalign treatment might be the perfect time to stop altogether.
7. Skipping Your Check-Ups
Regular visits to your Penge dentist ensure your treatment stays on track. Skipping these check-ups may lead to unnoticed issues or extended treatment times.
Your dentist will evaluate your progress, provide new sets of aligners, and address any concerns. It’s a crucial step in achieving your perfect smile.
What happens if you don’t wear Invisalign for 22 hours?
Inconsistent wear can delay your treatment and reduce its effectiveness. Teeth need constant pressure to shift correctly, and wearing Invisalign for fewer than 22 hours may cause teeth to relapse or stay misaligned.
Read the Full Article (Source: WebMD)
Final Thoughts
Wearing Invisalign in Penge gives you the freedom to straighten your teeth without the hassle of traditional braces. But it’s essential to break these common Invisalign bad habits if you want the best results.
At Green Lane Dental Centre, our friendly team supports you every step of the way, from consultation to aftercare. If you’re unsure about any part of your treatment, we’re here to help.
Ready for a confident, straighter smile? Book a consultation with your trusted Penge dentist today.