Posted July 6, 2017.
Invisalign® is a popular method for adults to correct minor alignment issues with their teeth. This can help prevent enamel attrition issues, while also giving you a more appealing smile. It comes in the form of durable plastic aligners. This special material makes it difficult for the casual observer to notice they’re in your mouth.
After two weeks, you will need to switch to a new set of custom aligners that are adjusted one gradual step closer to your ideal alignment. The average person meets their alignment goals with Invisalign® in six to eight weeks.
Once your smile has been fully corrected, there will still be a mild amount of tension lingering in the periodontal ligaments of your dental sockets. If it’s not mitigated in some way, this tension could cause your teeth to relapse out of their new position.
To prevent your teeth from relapsing, Dr. will likely fit you for a clear plastic retainer at our New York, New York clinic. This will be made from a soft, clear plastic material, similar to the Invisalign® aligner trays.
You will need to use the retainer, during the prescribed times for a total duration equal to the amount of time you needed your braces. Cleaning and maintaining your clear plastic retainer each day will keep the total duration of time you need to use it to the bare minimum.
You can drink normally, while the clear plastic retainer is in your mouth. However, you will need to take the retainer out when you’re eating. When you’re not wearing it, you should keep it in the case provided. Improving a case with a plastic bag or a napkin should only be a last resort.
You should rinse the retainer to remove any stray food matter, and plaque every time you take it out. The clear plastic retainer should be soaked each night in a mixture of half cold water and half antiseptic mouthwash.
If you notice some plaque buildup, you can gently brush the unit with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and nonabrasive toothpaste. Please note that brushing abrasive toothpaste could dull the plastic material, making it more noticeable while they’re in your mouth.
If you live in the New York, New York area and you’re interested in Invisalign® to correct your alignment issues, you should call 212-753–5575 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Frank Andolino.