How Long to Wear Invisalign® for a POsitively Awesome Smile
At Pachter Orthodontics, we think Invisalign aligner trays are the bee’s knees when it comes to getting a beautiful smile. But achieving a straighter smile and desired results isn’t a walk in the park. Just like traditional braces, Invisalign comes with its own unique challenges. The biggest one? Remembering to wear your Invisalign aligners consistently.
If you’re considering invisible aligners to conquer crowded teeth or a misaligned bite, knowing how long you need to wear clear aligners to ensure successful treatment is vital. Well, good news—that’s what we’re covering today! We’ll discuss the recommended hours of daily wear and how sticking to your treatment plan lets Invisalign treatment work its magic. Let’s jump right in!
How Long Do You Need to Wear Invisalign Aligners Every Day?
When it’s time to straighten teeth, wearing Invisalign aligners is the go-to for a stealthy smile transformation. But unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners don’t stay stuck to your teeth 24/7. Removable aligners let you enjoy all your favorite foods and make brushing and flossing easier – but this can be a problem for patients who don’t remember to pop them back in after eating!
How many hours a day do you have to wear your aligners while undergoing treatment? It’s simple – a patient must wear clear aligner trays for 20 to 22 hours a day to ensure that Invisalign aligners can fix orthodontic issues as well as metal braces.
Can This Affect Your Invisalign Treatment? YES!
Without meeting the recommended daily time, or if you stop wearing your aligners, Invisalign can’t apply the gentle pressure needed to move and straighten teeth. When a person’s teeth don’t get the appropriate wear time, it keeps the patient from being able to swap trays on schedule, which can delay Invisalign treatment time by weeks or even several months! That’s why wearing Invisalign as often as possible during treatment is SO important.
Aligners don’t just close gaps and gently push your teeth, either. Invisalign trays also keep your teeth from shifting back to their old positions (just like retainers that hold teeth in place and prevent noticeable changes after braces).
Good Habits Help Aligners Work Like Traditional Metal Braces
Invisalign works just as well as braces, but only if it stays on your teeth. To ensure your treatment goes off without a hitch, it’s crucial to wear each set of aligners for the recommended time. Don’t forget to clean your aligners regularly using warm water, toothpaste (or retainer cleaner), and a soft toothbrush to keep them fresh. Good oral hygiene habits and consistent aligner wear will help achieve the best results in the shortest time possible.
Reimagine Your Smile with the Pachter Team
Consistency pays off when it comes to Invisalign treatment. The more diligently you wear your aligners, the faster and more successful your orthodontic journey will be. Your treatment plan, mouth, and teeth will thank you!
If you’re on the lookout for an Invisalign, braces, and all-things-ortho expert, then it’s time to visit Pachter Orthodontics. Dr. P and Dr. K work with kid, teen, and adult teeth to create as many happy, healthy smiles as they can in our community. Schedule your free examination with a PO orthodontist today!