The invisible orthodonticsalso known as clear aligners, has revolutionised the way we correct dental problems such as malocclusion, crowding and misaligned teeth. However, despite its many advantages, many people make mistakes that can affect the success of treatment. In this article, from our Dental clinic in Pozuelo de Alarcón, we will explore in detail the five most common mistakes when using invisible braces and how to avoid them to ensure the best possible results.
1.-Not wearing the aligners for the recommended length of time.
One of the most common mistakes is not adhering to the daily wear time recommended by the orthodontist. For aligners to be effective, they should generally be worn 20-22 hours a day. Removing them for long periods of time can delay treatment progress and, in some cases, reverse the progress made. However, we can give you a number of tips to avoid this mistake and not slow down your treatment:
-Set a reminder on your phone to put in your aligners after meals.
-Always carry the case with you to store them and avoid losing them.
-Get into the habit of putting them on immediately after brushing your teeth.
2.-Not following a proper oral hygiene routine.
Wearing invisible braces requires special care of oral hygiene. Many patients do not properly clean their teeth or aligners, which can lead to bacteria build-up, stained teeth and problems such as tooth decay or gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene is as easy as:
-Brush your teeth after every meal before putting your aligners back in.
-Floss daily to remove food debris between teeth.
-Clean your aligners with specific products recommended by your orthodontistsuch as antiseptic cleaning solutions or effervescent tablets.
3.-Changing aligners prematurely.
Some patients, anxious to see quick results, make the mistake of changing aligners before the scheduled date. This may seem like a way to speed up treatment, but it can lead to uncontrolled tooth movement and compromise the plan designed by your specialist.
4.-Failure to attend regular check-ups.
Although invisible braces require fewer visits to the orthodontist than traditional braces, missing scheduled check-ups can be a serious mistake. These appointments are essential to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned. Check-ups with your orthodontist are important because:
-They allow the treatment plan to be adjusted if necessary.
-They detect problems such as incorrectly fitted aligners.
-The orthodontist can give you personalised advice to optimise your experience with aligners.
5.-Consuming food or drink with the aligners in place.
Another common mistake is eating or drinking with aligners in place. Not only can this damage the aligners, but it can also cause staining and residue build-up on the surface, affecting aesthetics and functionality. Therefore, before a meal you should:
-Always remove the aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.
-Clean your teeth and aligners before replacing them.
-Avoid sticky foods or sugary drinks while the aligners are not in your mouth, as residue can cause tooth decay.
Invisible orthodontics is an innovative tool that offers comfort and aesthetics during the dental correction process. However, avoiding these common mistakes is crucial to maximise its effectiveness and ensure a satisfactory result. By following your orthodontist's recommendations and adopting a disciplined routine, you can enjoy a perfect smile without complications.
If you want to improve your smile and oral health with invisible orthodontics, come to our dental clinic. Saborido & Rodriguez. Our team led by the Dr Santiago Saborido will help you to align your mouth thanks to this treatment. Discover the power of invisible orthodontics in Pozuelo de Alarcón. Make an appointment on 910 392 704.
