Can I Throw Away Old Invisalign Trays? The 160 Top Answers

Are you reusing your old Invisalign splints even though you’ve completed your treatment?

If you are, you shouldn’t be. There are many reasons why you might want to keep using your old trays.

expenditure

Orthodontic treatments are expensive, so it’s not uncommon for people to keep their old Invisalign splints and try to make the most of them.

Concerns about tooth alignment

You can also worry about your teeth shifting again. After all, you’ve been wearing your Invisaligns all along and want to make sure your teeth are perfect.

caution

While it may be tempting to hold on to old splints, it’s best not to use them longer than your treatment plan dictates. This may not seem like a big deal to you if you’re not forcing trays onto your teeth that feel too tight, but you shouldn’t wear them anyway.

It turns out that even though your old aligners fit you, they can still cause damage to your teeth. Especially since your older splints, while they seem to fit, are probably tighter than they should be.

This means you are putting unnecessary pressure on them by forcing them onto your teeth. The same feeling applies to old retainers. Forcing a retainer onto your teeth that you haven’t worn in a while will do more harm than good to your smile. Your teeth may become loose or put your bite in a position that was not what you intended.

Carrying trays after you’re done with them can have serious consequences. This prolonged wear and tear can lead to pain and damage, and the trays can even catch on your teeth. Also, by using the wrong trays, you can damage the gums around your teeth.

Instead, you should use the right bowls. Your Invisalign treatment has specific splints that correlate with your ideal treatment plan. Using the right kit is important to the success of your treatment.

It’s not a waste to stop using trays once you’re done with them. There’s a reason you should routinely change your trays. Your dentist has your best interest in mind when instructing you on proper use, so it’s important to listen to them.

They don’t prevent future shifts or just help your treatment go smoothly if you take it upon yourself to change your plan and wear the splints a little longer. Have confidence that your Invisalign treatment will give you the results you want. You just have to be patient.

If you have concerns about your tooth movement, treatment progress, or the fit of your Invisalign appliance, you should speak to your dentist before making any changes. This is in the best interest of your treatment progress, your teeth and your gum health.

If you have questions about Invisalign or any other dental concern, call our office today.

September 24, 2019

In orthodontic practices all over the world, mountains of plastic are created every day. This is my dramatization of the masses of aligners that arrive, unpack and store at our office every day. As in many practices, the number of aligners that come through our practice every day is increasing rapidly. Just ask our “Invisleader” who has the daunting task of managing all those aligner cases. Invisalign, the largest aligner company on the market, had reported 931,045 box shipments in 2017 and 1,228,065 box shipments in 2018. A box shipment can contain anywhere from 5 to 100+ aligners for each case. It has been reported that Invisalign will manufacture approximately 320,000 custom aligners each day. As you can imagine, that’s a lot of plastic!

Also on the rise is global awareness of our carbon footprint. As an orthodontist staring at the mountains of plastic that build up in the office every day, and as an Invisalign patient rushing through my own plastic aligners, I ask myself the same questions you all ask. Should I recycle my aligners?

Worn aligners

Each aligner progressively brings your tooth movement closer to your end result. On average, each aligner is worn for 1 week before moving on to your next aligner. In orthodontic treatment, it is common practice to always keep your current splint. We ask that you do this in case you lose your current aligner and are not ready to proceed with your next aligner. Putting in your previous aligner and notifying your orthodontist allows your teeth to stay in place while your orthodontist orders a replacement aligner. Once you’re done with the previous aligner, you should throw those aligners in the trash. Why? You can’t recycle a medical waste product! These things have been soaking in your mouth for a week and like any other plastic used for medical purposes, it cannot be reused. However, that’s just one reason why we can’t recycle aligners. What about the aligners that haven’t been used?

Unworn aligners

You may find yourself with several unused aligners during your treatment and be tempted to toss them in the recycling bin. Attending an orthodontic conference a few weeks ago, Invisalign CEO Joe Hogan raised some questions and concerns from orthodontists at the conference. Among those concerns was the question that you and I have. Does Invisalign develop a program to recycle unused aligners? What are they doing to minimize their carbon footprint? Joe pointed out that the patented SmartTrack material is a multi-layered polymer. It is unique in its properties of stiffness and elasticity. These properties create ideal conditions for tooth movement. Unfortunately, a multilayer polymer means it is made up of multiple layers of plastic. If you recall, most plastics are numbered from 1 to 7. They are categorized as such because each type of plastic has a different process for recycling and they should be sorted as such. Some of the plastics are not recyclable at all and must be sorted out from the recyclable ones. Some plants are only equipped to handle certain types of plastic because they are not equipped to handle the wide variety of plastics. Now add that the Invisalign splints cannot even be classified as they are made of a mixture of several types of plastic. This is the last reason why they cannot be recycled. At least for now. Joe told us that the plastic scraps that come from the molds used to make the aligners are reused as filler in things like speed bumps, cladding, insulation, egg cartons, etc.

What now?

There are few things we do today that don’t add to our carbon footprint. I’m not here to tell you whether that’s right or wrong. I just wanted to do my research to understand it a bit better so I can more easily answer your questions as well as my own. We know that for some, better alignment of your teeth and jaws can reduce the incidence of tooth decay, improve your overall oral health, and improve your overall quality of life. I think orthodontic aligners are a great tool for achieving a healthy smile, but maybe traditional braces are a better fit for the “greener” folks out there. I would like to hear your opinion! Please contact [email protected] or comment below.

Gerald W Wesley, DDS, MS

Invisalign® aligners are virtually invisible, comfortable and removable. Most of our Invisalign patients in Alaska, Monroe, Bothell and Mill Creek love these benefits. For some, however, remembering to put the aligners back in after removal, taking them on and off in public, and keeping an eye on them is a struggle. That’s why we’re occasionally asked: Can I just wear my Invisalign overnight? Will my aligners work if I don’t wear them for the prescribed amount of time every day? At Richard Chan Orthodontics, we have answers!

How does Invisalign work?

Before we get into the rationale for whether or not you can just wear Invisalign at night, it’s important to first understand how Invisalign works. The aligners are based on the same principles as braces, which means they apply gentle, continuous force to set teeth into place.

But when comparing braces to Invisalign, it’s the timing of that force that differs. dr Richard Chan designs the aligners at the beginning of your Invisalign or Invisalign Teen treatment. Based on his specifications, a series of aligners will then be printed just for you.

Each aligner set is pre-programmed to achieve specific tooth movement, allowing only specific teeth to move at each stage. As you move through the line of aligners, your smile will gradually change until your teeth are in the ideal alignment.

Is it okay if I only wear my Invisalign at night?

How long do you have to wear Invisalign? The recommendation is 22 hours a day. Technically, you can just wear Invisalign overnight, but you shouldn’t.

dr Chan uses a 3D model of your mouth to determine when and where each tooth should move so your smile complements your unique facial features and you have a stable, healthy bite. All of this tooth movement must take place in order to achieve the final smile.

Additionally, because your treatment plan was created based on a 22-hour daily wear schedule and a specific schedule for changing to a new set of aligners (usually every 1-2 weeks), this is the basis for the estimated duration of your Invisalign treatment.

If you only wear Invisalign at night, the 22 hours a day is reduced to 8 to 10 hours. As said, since the specific, predetermined tooth movements programmed into your current Invisalign tray must be performed before proceeding with your next set of aligners, progress will be significantly slower. A course of treatment estimated at 12 months may last 24 months or more.

In fact, nighttime aligners may never move your teeth to a satisfactory result. If you wear your Invisalign aligners 22 hours a day, your teeth only have 2 hours a day to shift backwards. Because this is programmed into your trays, Dr. Chan’s treatment plan for it.

However, if you only wear the splints 8-10 hours a day, your teeth will have 14-16 hours a day to return to their original position, and this will happen to a much greater extent.

It’s easy to think of tooth movement as follows: the teeth are constantly moving and never stop. With Invisalign or aligner treatment, the teeth move forward when the aligners are in place and backward when they are removed. Wearing the aligners only at night will result in the teeth constantly jogging back and forth with no improvement in their position!

What about those nighttime aligners you can order online?

While you may have seen nighttime aligners mail order, this option is for very mild cosmetic cases, and even in those cases, nighttime aligners don’t work well. Treatment is also not usually planned and supervised by a certified orthodontic specialist.

As orthodontist Dr. Jeff Kwong of Jeffrey Kwong Orthodontics in a post on DIY orthodontics said: “Orthodontic treatment is not static and it is important to have someone review your progress to keep it on track, ideally the person who prescribed the tooth movements first.” Place. Only they know where your teeth should go and that is determined by an oral exam and X-ray.”

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, direct consumer treatments such as mail order nighttime aligners without orthodontic supervision can result in damage to teeth and gums, including tooth loss and/or malocclusion. At the very least, it probably won’t give you the results you want.

Even if it were safe and effective, fixing an orthodontic problem that would take 6 months with a typical Invisalign treatment plan will now take a year with nightly aligners, and even then the results are unlikely to be satisfactory!

What are my options if I don’t want to wear Invisalign all day?

Hey, no treatment is right for everyone. If the idea of ​​wearing Invisalign day and night, keeping an eye on your aligners, or taking your aligners on and off in public doesn’t fit your lifestyle, there are other options!

Invisible braces in Mill Creek, Bothell, Monroe and Alaska

Our clear ceramic braces are stain resistant, durable and made from a translucent material. Combined with our thin, lightweight archwires, the streamlined, clear brackets blend into your smile. If you’re interested in invisible braces in Mill Creek, Bothell, Monroe, or Alaska, these might be a good option. The clear braces are much less noticeable than their metal counterparts.

Once you get used to wearing your clear braces, you’ll hardly notice they’re there. Because they are attached to your teeth and stay there throughout the treatment, you don’t have to switch them or put them in and out of your mouth.

Limited treatment

If you have a slight deformity, such as For example, if you have a tiny gap between your teeth or are slightly crowded, but have an otherwise healthy bite, you may not want comprehensive Invisalign treatment.

So if you’ve been wondering if you can only wear Invisalign at night, you’ll be happy to know that limited treatment might be an option too. Since your treatment by Dr. Chan planned and monitored, you would achieve excellent results in a healthy and safe way.

A limited approach would still require you to wear your aligners 22 hours a day, but the treatment would only target specific tooth movements and you’d be done much quicker.

How long should I wear my retainer a day?

Now that you know the downsides of only wearing Invisalign overnight, you might be wondering: does the same apply to a clear retainer? How long should I wear my retainer a day? When you complete your Invisalign treatment, Dr. Chan used our 3D printer to create a custom clear retainer, sometimes referred to by patients as an Invisalign retainer.

When you receive your appliance, we will provide you with retainer instructions that include how long you should wear your retainer each day. Depending on your needs, you can initially wear it full-time and wear it for 20 to 22 hours a day, similar to your Invisalign aligners.

However, you will quickly transition to only wearing your retainer at night once your teeth have stabilized in their new position. After all, you only need to wear your retainer a few nights a week to keep your Invisalign results for life.

The central theses:

It is not recommended to only wear your Invisalign overnight. For best results, leave your aligners on 22 hours a day.

Your treatment plan is based on the 22 hour daily wear schedule and each set of aligners is pre-programmed to achieve specific tooth movements. These movements must take place before moving on to your next tablet. Reducing your wear time from more than 20 hours a day to 8-10 hours means that a treatment plan designed for 12 months is now lasting 24 months or more, with less than satisfactory results likely to be seen.

The nightly aligners that you can order online are risky and only intended for extremely mild cases. Not only does the treatment take twice as long or longer, most of the time it is not designed or directed by a certified orthodontic specialist. This can put you at risk of painful, costly problems, including bite problems and even tooth loss. Eventually, as the aligners are inserted and removed over a period of time, your teeth will constantly move back and forth without changing the final position of your teeth.

If you don’t want to wear Invisalign all day, there are other options!

Connect today with Dr. Chan!

While we don’t recommend wearing Invisalign just overnight, that doesn’t mean straightening your teeth can’t fit into your lifestyle. At Richard Chan Orthodontics, we always strive to make braces and Invisalign affordable, convenient, and efficient for every patient. To learn more about your options for the smile you love, schedule a free consultation at our Juneau, Bothell, Monroe, or Mill Creek orthodontic office today!

Invisalign dos and don’ts you need to know

Do you use Invisalign?

Who wouldn’t? It is a revolutionary solution and one of the most recommended ways to get a perfect smile back.

Still, it’s important to learn how to take care of it. You need to understand some basic Invisalign do’s and don’ts to ensure your investment lasts as long as intended.

This guide will teach you some Invisalign tips and tricks, so read on to learn more:

1. Soak your aligners at least once a day

If you want your Invisalign to look and smell good, you need to soak your aligners at least once a day. You can use denture cleaners or Invisalign’s cleaning crystals. After you finish soaking, you need to take another toothbrush and brush away all the food debris and plaque.

Make sure the toothbrush is not the same one you use to brush real teeth. After you’re done brushing, rinse them out with warm water before putting them back in your mouth. This will ensure that the food particles don’t grow and cause more tooth decay on your real teeth.

2. Brush and floss before wearing Invisalign

Your teeth and gums should stay clean and healthy. Otherwise you will have the same dental problems later. Regular brushing and flossing are also important to keep your teeth clean and strong.

Always make sure your teeth are clean before putting your aligners back in your mouth. This helps to optimize your oral hygiene. If you don’t do this, the food particles in the Invisalign can attach to your real teeth.

3. Consider snacks carefully

Do you like to eat small meals throughout the day instead of eating three large meals? If this is the case, you will need to adjust this activity to keep your Invisalign well cared for. You must remember that the effectiveness of Invisalign depends on being able to wear it 20-22 hours a day.

If you want to eat something that would affect your Invisalign, you must take it out. If you don’t, you’ll end up shortening the life of your aligner. The best part is that you can choose not to eat snacks instead.

Many Invisalign users have found that they have lost a few pounds during this orthodontic treatment. It’s great as it will make you think about whether your snack is worth removing the Invisalign. Thinking twice can reduce your snack rampages over time.

4. Stop consuming too much caffeine

Do you drink coffee next to breakfast? If so, chances are you’ll be sipping cup after cup to keep you going. But with Invisalign, you may need to reconsider that habit.

Wearing this aligner gives you ample opportunities to stop this habit. Finally, the only recommended drink you can drink with it is water. Coffee is one of the worst things to drink as it will soil your aligners.

These patches allow people to see that you are wearing braces. This will defeat the purpose of Invisalign and ruin its quality. That’s why you should consider whether a warm cup of coffee is worth destroying your aligners.

5. Don’t leave the trays behind

On the don’ts side of Invisalign dos and don’ts, leaving it open-ended is the worst decision. You must keep your aligners in their case when not in use. If you leave them outdoors, you risk exposing them to airborne pathogens and accumulating bacteria.

If you don’t put it in the case, you’re likely to lose or damage your aligners. That’s why you need to keep your aligner case handy no matter where you are. You must soak and rinse your Invisalign first if you leave it out for a few hours.

6. Don’t forget to plan your trips

Note that you will need to switch to a new Invisalign aligner every few weeks. Because of this, you need to have some forethought and planning during this treatment. If you’re going on a long vacation away from home, be sure to pack new ones along with your current aligners.

A good alternative is to have the new ones shipped to your current location. Nothing should disturb your treatment. Otherwise, you might end up restarting it and getting worse than before.

7. Do not clean your Invisalign with colored or perfumed soaps

Be careful not to use substances with strong dyes and fragrances. This includes both soaps and toothpaste. The main reason is that it will inevitably leave some residue on your Invisalign trays, which will lead to discoloration in the long run.

Another disadvantage of this is the potentially unpleasant taste it can give your aligners. Therefore, you need to make an effort and think about what is suitable for Invisalign cleaning.

8. Don’t smoke

Another bad habit to break is smoking. With a wearing time of 20 to 22 hours, you only have enough time to eat and drink. That doesn’t leave you much time to think about smoking.

Also, smoking while wearing Invisalign has some uncomfortable effects. The main disadvantage is that your aligners will quickly become discolored. If you smoke regularly, this may be the best time to start thinking about quitting.

Follow this Invisalign do’s and don’ts guide!

This is the list to keep in mind when trying to get Invisalign treatment. Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist about more Invisalign do’s and don’ts. You know more things that could affect your dental health.

Do you need a dental consultation? If so, contact us today and we will help you arrange an appointment with our experienced dentists.

So many people are asking questions about the time it takes Invisalign, whether it’s to get the aligners at all or to solve a specific dental problem. This blog post dives deep into some of the most common questions people ask about this modern day cosmetic treatment. We’ve also included some Invisalign results in the appropriate sections so you can see how long it takes to achieve the ideal smile

Let’s start at the beginning of the Invisalign process.

How long does Invisalign take to make?

The process for Invisalign begins with an initial consultation. After this consultation, you will receive your digital 3D scans. The 3D scans are used to design your new smile and allow the computer software to calculate the number of aligners required. After all of these calculations have been completed and you have approved the look of your new smile, Align Technologies Inc can begin the manufacturing process. The actual production of Invisalign often only takes a few hours, as the most modern 3D production processes are used. After the trays have been manufactured, they can be sent to the practice.

How long will it take to get Invisalign splints after the scan?

After you have received all the first scans, the trays are usually sent to the practice within approx. 2 weeks. You will then be invited to revisit the practice to ensure the train is 6 and you are comfortable boarding and disembarking.

How long does it take to apply Invisalign?

You may find that initially it takes you a little longer to put in the Invisalign trays each day, although it shouldn’t take much longer than 30 seconds to remove or put on your aligners each time as you get used to using the trays clip in, you should be able to plug and unplug them in just a few seconds each time. This makes them extremely convenient, especially since you have to take them off to eat and drink.

Treatment times for different case types

Invisalign treatment times will always vary, the general rule of thumb is that moving anterior teeth is faster than removing posterior teeth and the less amount of movement required takes less time.

How long does Invisalign take to close a gap?

If you only have a few small gaps between your front teeth, you may be eligible for Invisalign Go, this treatment typically lasts around 6 months. However, you may find that other forms of treatment such as cosmetic bonding or even veneers are more appropriate, especially if you want results in less time.

Invisalign results in closing a gap

“This lady was always unhappy with the gaps between her teeth. After discussing the various options with her, we decided on Invisalign treatment followed by teeth whitening. She is delighted with the results. Her next step will be a simple compound edge banding, if she so chooses. Invisalign followed by teeth whitening +/- bonding is a great non-invasive way to achieve a new smile.” – Dr. Nishan Dixit

How long does Invisalign last for crowded teeth?

Crowded front teeth can usually be corrected after 6 to 12 months, depending on the extent of the crowding. One point to keep in mind is to be aware of the fact that often the reason for narrow teeth is that there is not enough room in the jaw for them. Therefore, additional treatments may need to be performed prior to Invisalign, such as: B. a possible extraction of teeth to create enough space. While Invisalign treatment can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months, this additional treatment increases the overall treatment time for crowded teeth.

Invisalign results for crowded teeth

“This lady was fed up with her crowded bottom teeth and decided to have them straightened. She had always found it difficult to keep them clean and spotless due to the protruding tooth. After discussing the different options available to her, she decided to go with Invisalign clear aligners. We completed the short course of treatment in approximately 16 weeks. She was very happy with the result and also whitened her teeth again to give them a brighter appearance. This patient had slightly crooked teeth and therefore the Invisalign treatment was relatively straightforward and easy.” – Dr. Nishan Dixit

“An Invisalign course was the ideal treatment for this young man to correct the alignment of his teeth.” -Dr. Nishan Dixit

How long does Invisalign take for an overbite?

An overbite is one of the more complex problems that can be solved with Invisalign. It may be necessary to move a larger number of teeth, especially molars, which have larger roots and are therefore more difficult to move. Typical treatments for an overbite with Invisalign can last up to 2 years.

How often should I use Invisalign clearing crystals?

If you choose the retainer Brite Invisalign cleaning crystals, it is recommended to use them every day. The cleaning crystals are a great way to remove the biofilm that forms on your Invisalign appliance every day. This biofilm is a naturally occurring layer that forms over your teeth. If not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can look unsightly and even make your Invisalign braces difficult to place.

summary

Invisalign always takes a different amount of time depending on the clinical situation. Treatments can be expected to last between 6 and 12 months. If you would like to book a consultation at our dental practice in Harrow, please visit our appointment request page.

What are the main benefits of Invisalign treatment?

Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible – people may not even notice you’re wearing them. You can take them off for eating and drinking, for brushing and flossing, or for special occasions. There are no metal clips or wires to irritate or break your mouth.

Unlike other brands, Invisalign clear aligners are made with patented SmartTrack material, which is more comfortable and provides a better fit.1 Invisalign aligners are also trimmed based on your gumline for comfort and appearance. As the world’s most advanced clear aligner system, we’ve successfully enhanced over 12 million smiles, including 3 million teenage smiles.2

How long do you really have to wear a retainer?

We follow strict sourcing policies and each page includes a full list of sources for full transparency.

Clinical content provided by Byte is reviewed and fact-checked by a licensed dentist or orthodontist to ensure clinical accuracy.

Table of contents What are retainers? Permanent retainer is it for life? Don’t wear proper care references

You must wear your retainer for at least 10 years after you have removed your braces or completed your aligner treatment. Many people wear their retainers for the rest of their lives. For the first three months after braces or aligners, you should wear your retainers most of the time. After that, you can probably transition to just wearing them at night.

What are retainers? Think of a retainer as protection. You have invested in your smile with braces or aligners. Your retainers keep your teeth in place. There are several types of retainers including:

Traditionally, these are plates that sit on the roof of your mouth and wires are wrapped around the front of the teeth to hold the plates in place. You can remove these retainers when you eat or wear them only at night. Plastic These retainers look a bit like aligners. They wrap all the way around the teeth. Likewise, you remove them when you eat, or you may only wear them when you sleep. Permanent These retainers sit behind the teeth so that they are not visible. But they never come out.

You’ve probably heard of traditional and plastic holders before. But permanent retainers may seem a bit unusual to you.

Retainers keep your smile after active treatment is complete, and adults must wear their retainers for life, but adolescents may be able to stop wearing them after around 10 years.

What is a permanent retainer? A permanent retainer is bonded to the back of your teeth. Your orthodontist installs it, and it never comes out unless someone else removes it and dissolves the adhesive. Experts say permanent retainers are usually recommended for people who have had teeth that: were twisted severely.

Run over.

Far apart from each other. Teeth like these are very tempted to revert to their old positions, and they need the constant presence of a retainer to keep them in line and in place. A permanent retainer may also be recommended for people who have difficulty following instructions. You can’t take it out, so you’re not tempted to take a break from it. If you know you won’t be wearing a removable retainer as instructed, a permanent version may make sense. However, experts say permanent retainers also have some serious downsides. They include:

Damaged wire can come loose and poke and poke in your teeth. Tooth Decay You cannot floss between your teeth while wearing a permanent retainer. The wire blocks access. It is also difficult for dentists to clean between the teeth when wearing such a retainer. Discomfort Permanent retainers can rub against the tongue, and the chafing can be incredibly uncomfortable.

Do you have to wear them for life? Whether you choose a permanent retainer or a removable version, this appliance will be part of your routine for at least 10 years, if not the rest of your life. Braces and aligners work by applying even pressure that stretches the mesh of tissue that connects your teeth to your jaw. The bones in your teeth remodel and change shape based on this pressure. But some spring remains in the fabric. The first two weeks are critical. When the constant pressure is removed, the teeth try to return to their old position. During this time, wear your retainer at all times to protect your investment. But even as those weeks pass, you still need to get your teeth to maintain their new position. It is best to wear your retainer at night every night to protect your teeth. But if you had your dental work done as a teenager and wore your retainer for 10 years after treatment, you may be able to stop wearing the appliance if your dentist agrees. If you have your teeth straightened as an adult, you will wear your retainer for life. Your chance of tooth displacement is simply greater, and teeth tend to move as you age. To protect your investment, your retainer should be part of your future life.

How many hours a day should you wear a retainer? If you have recently completed treatment with braces or aligners, the first two weeks after treatment are crucial. During this time, you may need to wear your retainer for up to 22 hours a day, only removing it to eat and to care for your teeth. After about two weeks, you can usually transition to only wearing your retainers at night while you sleep. How many days per week? You must wear your retainers every day. While missing a day or night here and there doesn’t cause dramatic problems, it’s important to make them a part of your regular routine. See if Byte can help your smile

Take care of your removable retainers. Retainers that you can put in and take out of your mouth are easy to wear and clean. But they’re also easy to neglect, and doing so could have serious consequences. To take care of your retainers, you must:

Take them out Take out the device when you want to eat or drink something other than water. Clean them. Bad buildup can make your device both look and taste bad. Brushing under cold water can help keep the retainer clean. Protect Them Keep your retainer in a case when not in your mouth. It is very easy to forget and throw away these devices. Replace them If the devices feel loose, worn, cracked, or damaged, you need a new mount

Retainers are not cheap. Researchers say a standard wire holder can cost as much as $340. Some companies offer a retainer as part of your treatment package. But replacement tools usually come with a price tag. Take care of your retainers, and they’ll likely keep your smile as bright as possible. If you notice that your teeth are moving despite wearing your retainers, a discussion with your dental team is in order. You may need a new retainer to keep your teeth in place, or you may need to wear your retainers longer each day. Your team can tell you more about what you need to do.

Straightening your teeth with orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign can give you a beautiful, healthy smile for life! That is, as long as you wear your retainer as instructed. If you haven’t worn this small but important orthodontic appliance diligently, you may find that your teeth aren’t as straight as they used to be! Can you just wear your old retainer to straighten your teeth? The answer is complicated, and a wrong choice can cause serious damage to your teeth. Read on as we talk about whether your old retainer can help you regain your straight smile.

Retainers: Your last step to a bright smile

Your orthodontic treatment does not simply end when your teeth have reached their ideal position. The supporting tissues in your gums and jaw still need time to heal and set the results. Wearing a retainer after treatment will help keep your teeth in their new position while the rest of your mouth heals. In many cases, you will need to wear a retainer at least a few nights a week for the rest of your life. This is because the shape of your mouth changes as you age and grow. A retainer ensures that your freshly smoothed smile will look its best for years to come.

Using an old retainer to realign teeth

If you haven’t worn your retainer and are noticing your teeth are shifting, chances are your old retainer can help. However, sometimes wearing an old retainer can do a lot more harm than good. It all depends on how long you’ve been without your retainer:

A Few Days or a Week: After a very brief absence of a few days or a week, chances are your retainer will still fit and be able to correct minor changes in your smile.

After a very brief absence of a few days or a week, chances are your retainer will still fit and be able to correct minor changes in your smile. A few weeks or a month: After a slightly longer period of a few weeks or a month, your retainer may no longer feel comfortable. Call your orthodontist to see if it’s safe to wear.

After a slightly longer period of a few weeks or a month, your retainer may no longer feel comfortable. Call your orthodontist to see if it’s safe to wear. A few months or years: Don’t even try to wear an old retainer if it’s been several months or years! It’s very unlikely to fit, and it could get stuck, causing pain and possibly even damaging your teeth and tissues. Instead, make an appointment with your orthodontist and take your old retainer with you. You may be able to customize the holder you have or you may need a new one.

Wearing and caring for your retainer

You’ve worked hard to get that beautifully straight smile during your orthodontic treatment, so protect your results with a retainer! As you get used to wearing that orthodontic appliance again, remember:

Rinse your retainer with cold water before and after each use

Brush your retainer at least once a day with a non-abrasive toothbrush and toothpaste

Never keep your retainer in a napkin or in a place where pets could easily get at it

Keep your retainer away from hot water and harsh chemicals

Wear your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist

About the practice

At Simply Orthodontics Dayville, we do everything we can to make it as easy as possible for you to achieve a happy, healthy smile, even after treatment is complete! In addition to a wide range of treatments for every smile type, each service comes with a lifetime guarantee. With our RETAINERS FOR LIFE program, you can have your lost, broken or ill-fitting retainers replaced up to four times a year for a small co-payment! If you need help with your retainer, don’t hesitate to contact us online or at (860) 774-2008.

Invisalign® can straighten your teeth in as little as 12 to 18 months. However, it is important to wear your retainer after treatment as instructed by our cosmetic dentists. Your retainer prevents your teeth from moving back into their original position. Failure to wear your retainer after Invisalign braces will ultimately impact your smile and overall oral health.

In this blog post, we address some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our patients after completing Invisalign treatment. Here’s what you should know about your retainer.

Why do my teeth move when I remove my retainer?

When you are finished with Invisalign treatment, we can understand the reluctance you may feel to have yet another brace. (We promise we’re not trying to torment you!) However, it’s important that you wear your retainer as instructed by our Invisalign dentists. Otherwise, your teeth will gradually shift to their original position.

Although you may not see your teeth moving at first, the changes will become more apparent over time. For example, your retainer may feel tight and uncomfortable if you haven’t worn it for a few days. Your retainers will fit as long as you wear them consistently.

It’s normal for your teeth to shift slightly after your Invisalign braces are removed or when you stop wearing Invisalign. This is the result of the daily wear and tear of your teeth from biting, chewing, swallowing and speaking. The retainer is designed to prevent noticeable changes so you can keep your beautiful smile.

Do I need a retainer after Invisalign treatment?

Yes, you must wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment. Even though Invisalign moves teeth differently than traditional metal braces, the result is still the same. You must wear retainers after any type of teeth straightening.

What can I expect after Invisalign braces?

Your teeth are partially held in place by the surrounding jawbone. During Invisalign treatment, your jawbone would have softened or disappeared (a process called resorption) allowing the teeth to move into their final position.

Once you stop wearing Invisalign, you will need to wear orthodontic retainers to keep your teeth in place while new bone is laid down. It takes about 9 to 12 months for your body to build enough bone to support your teeth.

What can I expect 12 months after Invisalign?

By the end of 12 months, enough new bone should have formed around the teeth to keep them strong. Because of this, you don’t need to wear your orthodontic retainers as often to keep your smile straight. Our dentists may recommend wearing your retainers only 3 to 5 times a week.

While your teeth don’t move as dramatically once the jawbone regains bone tissue, they move forward and inward slightly as you age. You don’t notice this change overnight, but something that happens gradually over decades.

What if I lose my advance?

If you lose your retainer, simply call our office to make an appointment. Whether you accidentally dropped your retainer on your food tray or the dog ate it, we can fit you with a new retainer as quickly as possible so you don’t lose the progress you’ve made with orthodontic treatment. During your appointment, we will take impressions of your teeth to create a new retainer.

Request an appointment with us

For more information, please contact our office to request an appointment with one of our Invisalign dentists in Grand Rapids, MI. Our dentists and their team will be happy to help you! To get started, call Renew Family Dental at (616) 245-3205.

This blog post has been updated.

exam | Duration of treatment | What does it include? | preparatory work | Benefits | Types | Wearing Invisalign | Post-Invisalign Treatment | Costs

Orthodontic relapse can occur when teeth shift after orthodontic treatment (braces).

Our orthodontists have seen many cases where this has happened and are now offering treatments to prevent and treat this problem.

Many patients believe that once Invisalign treatment is complete, the orthodontic process is complete, but further care is needed to avoid danger or damage.

Ligaments that connect teeth to the jawbone are responsible for pulling teeth.

Orthodontic relapse is the process by which these bands retract the teeth after Invisalign.

protection of your teeth

After your treatment is complete, your dentist will place a fixed retainer in your mouth on the inner surfaces of the front 4-6 teeth of the treated arch.

For most patients, we also create a removable retainer that looks similar to the clear aligner but is made of a stronger, larger material.

This particular retainer is called Vivera and is constructed with a special technology that helps the retainer to be stiffer and more compliant.

Most traditional retainers are prone to treatment relapse if not maintained in proper condition.

Removable and fixed retainers keep teeth in the correct position after treatment is complete.

Vivera holder

This is a removable retainer developed by Invisalign that is typically worn at night to prevent your treatment from recurring.

It can be used after any type of teeth straightening treatment and is not limited to Invisalign and is used for most orthodontic cases.

It is made from a specially patented material that is proven to be 30% stronger than most other leading clear retainer types.

Vivera is often used as additional support for a fixed retainer, e.g. B. a bonded lingual wire (wire that is bonded to the inside of the front teeth) is used.

This forms a belt and brace approach to prevent recurrence and ensure longevity of treatment.

How long after the treatment do I have to wear the retainer?

As an adult, you will inevitably have to wear your retainers. This is to prevent relapse of treatment and ensure success.

The removable retainer is often only worn at night.

Next: Care after Invisalign treatment

Invisalign Tips:

Medically reviewed and updated on July 22, 2021

As you near the end of your aligner treatment, you may be wondering if you can use your last aligner set as a retainer. With clear plastic holders that look almost like aligners that are now available, it can be easy to confuse the two types of devices. However, aligners and retainers are actually different – and your last set of aligners cannot serve as a substitute for retainers.

Use of transparent dental splints as retainers

Although they sometimes look alike, clear teeth aligners and retainers are two different types of dental equipment.

Aligners are thin plastic trays designed to gradually straighten teeth. These removable appliances correct mild to moderate tooth alignment problems. They are custom made in a series and you will typically wear each set in your series for a few weeks before moving on to the next set.

Retainers, on the other hand, typically help you maintain proper tooth alignment after orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners. Retainers come in a variety of forms, including wire and plastic appliances and clear splints that look very similar to aligners.

Invisalign dos and don’ts you need to know

Do you use Invisalign?

Who wouldn’t? It is a revolutionary solution and one of the most recommended ways to get a perfect smile back.

Still, it’s important to learn how to take care of it. You need to understand some basic Invisalign do’s and don’ts to ensure your investment lasts as long as intended.

This guide will teach you some Invisalign tips and tricks, so read on to learn more:

1. Soak your aligners at least once a day

If you want your Invisalign to look and smell good, you need to soak your aligners at least once a day. You can use denture cleaners or Invisalign’s cleaning crystals. After you finish soaking, you need to take another toothbrush and brush away all the food debris and plaque.

Make sure the toothbrush is not the same one you use to brush real teeth. After you’re done brushing, rinse them out with warm water before putting them back in your mouth. This will ensure that the food particles don’t grow and cause more tooth decay on your real teeth.

2. Brush and floss before wearing Invisalign

Your teeth and gums should stay clean and healthy. Otherwise you will have the same dental problems later. Regular brushing and flossing are also important to keep your teeth clean and strong.

Always make sure your teeth are clean before putting your aligners back in your mouth. This helps to optimize your oral hygiene. If you don’t do this, the food particles in the Invisalign can attach to your real teeth.

3. Consider snacks carefully

Do you like to eat small meals throughout the day instead of eating three large meals? If this is the case, you will need to adjust this activity to keep your Invisalign well cared for. You must remember that the effectiveness of Invisalign depends on being able to wear it 20-22 hours a day.

If you want to eat something that would affect your Invisalign, you must take it out. If you don’t, you’ll end up shortening the life of your aligner. The best part is that you can choose not to eat snacks instead.

Many Invisalign users have found that they have lost a few pounds during this orthodontic treatment. It’s great as it will make you think about whether your snack is worth removing the Invisalign. Thinking twice can reduce your snack rampages over time.

4. Stop consuming too much caffeine

Do you drink coffee next to breakfast? If so, chances are you’ll be sipping cup after cup to keep you going. But with Invisalign, you may need to reconsider that habit.

Wearing this aligner gives you ample opportunities to stop this habit. Finally, the only recommended drink you can drink with it is water. Coffee is one of the worst things to drink as it will soil your aligners.

These patches allow people to see that you are wearing braces. This will defeat the purpose of Invisalign and ruin its quality. That’s why you should consider whether a warm cup of coffee is worth destroying your aligners.

5. Don’t leave the trays behind

On the don’ts side of Invisalign dos and don’ts, leaving it open-ended is the worst decision. You must keep your aligners in their case when not in use. If you leave them outdoors, you risk exposing them to airborne pathogens and accumulating bacteria.

If you don’t put it in the case, you’re likely to lose or damage your aligners. That’s why you need to keep your aligner case handy no matter where you are. You must soak and rinse your Invisalign first if you leave it out for a few hours.

6. Don’t forget to plan your trips

Note that you will need to switch to a new Invisalign aligner every few weeks. Because of this, you need to have some forethought and planning during this treatment. If you’re going on a long vacation away from home, be sure to pack new ones along with your current aligners.

A good alternative is to have the new ones shipped to your current location. Nothing should disturb your treatment. Otherwise, you might end up restarting it and getting worse than before.

7. Do not clean your Invisalign with colored or perfumed soaps

Be careful not to use substances with strong dyes and fragrances. This includes both soaps and toothpaste. The main reason is that it will inevitably leave some residue on your Invisalign trays, which will lead to discoloration in the long run.

Another disadvantage of this is the potentially unpleasant taste it can give your aligners. Therefore, you need to make an effort and think about what is suitable for Invisalign cleaning.

8. Don’t smoke

Another bad habit to break is smoking. With a wearing time of 20 to 22 hours, you only have enough time to eat and drink. That doesn’t leave you much time to think about smoking.

Also, smoking while wearing Invisalign has some uncomfortable effects. The main disadvantage is that your aligners will quickly become discolored. If you smoke regularly, this may be the best time to start thinking about quitting.

Follow this Invisalign do’s and don’ts guide!

This is the list to keep in mind when trying to get Invisalign treatment. Don’t hesitate to ask your dentist about more Invisalign do’s and don’ts. You know more things that could affect your dental health.

Do you need a dental consultation? If so, contact us today and we will help you arrange an appointment with our experienced dentists.

Invisalign® can straighten your teeth in as little as 12 to 18 months. However, it is important to wear your retainer after treatment as instructed by our cosmetic dentists. Your retainer prevents your teeth from moving back into their original position. Failure to wear your retainer after Invisalign braces will ultimately impact your smile and overall oral health.

In this blog post, we address some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from our patients after completing Invisalign treatment. Here’s what you should know about your retainer.

Why do my teeth move when I remove my retainer?

When you are finished with Invisalign treatment, we can understand the reluctance you may feel to have yet another brace. (We promise we’re not trying to torment you!) However, it’s important that you wear your retainer as instructed by our Invisalign dentists. Otherwise, your teeth will gradually shift to their original position.

Although you may not see your teeth moving at first, the changes will become more apparent over time. For example, your retainer may feel tight and uncomfortable if you haven’t worn it for a few days. Your retainers will fit as long as you wear them consistently.

It’s normal for your teeth to shift slightly after your Invisalign braces are removed or when you stop wearing Invisalign. This is the result of the daily wear and tear of your teeth from biting, chewing, swallowing and speaking. The retainer is designed to prevent noticeable changes so you can keep your beautiful smile.

Do I need a retainer after Invisalign treatment?

Yes, you must wear a retainer after Invisalign treatment. Even though Invisalign moves teeth differently than traditional metal braces, the result is still the same. You must wear retainers after any type of teeth straightening.

What can I expect after Invisalign braces?

Your teeth are partially held in place by the surrounding jawbone. During Invisalign treatment, your jawbone would have softened or disappeared (a process called resorption) allowing the teeth to move into their final position.

Once you stop wearing Invisalign, you will need to wear orthodontic retainers to keep your teeth in place while new bone is laid down. It takes about 9 to 12 months for your body to build enough bone to support your teeth.

What can I expect 12 months after Invisalign?

By the end of 12 months, enough new bone should have formed around the teeth to keep them strong. Because of this, you don’t need to wear your orthodontic retainers as often to keep your smile straight. Our dentists may recommend wearing your retainers only 3 to 5 times a week.

While your teeth don’t move as dramatically once the jawbone regains bone tissue, they move forward and inward slightly as you age. You don’t notice this change overnight, but something that happens gradually over decades.

What if I lose my advance?

If you lose your retainer, simply call our office to make an appointment. Whether you accidentally dropped your retainer on your food tray or the dog ate it, we can fit you with a new retainer as quickly as possible so you don’t lose the progress you’ve made with orthodontic treatment. During your appointment, we will take impressions of your teeth to create a new retainer.

Request an appointment with us

For more information, please contact our office to request an appointment with one of our Invisalign dentists in Grand Rapids, MI. Our dentists and their team will be happy to help you! To get started, call Renew Family Dental at (616) 245-3205.

This blog post has been updated.

exam | Duration of treatment | What does it include? | preparatory work | Benefits | Types | Wearing Invisalign | Post-Invisalign Treatment | Costs

Orthodontic relapse can occur when teeth shift after orthodontic treatment (braces).

Our orthodontists have seen many cases where this has happened and are now offering treatments to prevent and treat this problem.

Many patients believe that once Invisalign treatment is complete, the orthodontic process is complete, but further care is needed to avoid danger or damage.

Ligaments that connect teeth to the jawbone are responsible for pulling teeth.

Orthodontic relapse is the process by which these bands retract the teeth after Invisalign.

protection of your teeth

After your treatment is complete, your dentist will place a fixed retainer in your mouth on the inner surfaces of the front 4-6 teeth of the treated arch.

For most patients, we also create a removable retainer that looks similar to the clear aligner but is made of a stronger, larger material.

This particular retainer is called Vivera and is constructed with a special technology that helps the retainer to be stiffer and more compliant.

Most traditional retainers are prone to treatment relapse if not maintained in proper condition.

Removable and fixed retainers keep teeth in the correct position after treatment is complete.

Vivera holder

This is a removable retainer developed by Invisalign that is typically worn at night to prevent your treatment from recurring.

It can be used after any type of teeth straightening treatment and is not limited to Invisalign and is used for most orthodontic cases.

It is made from a specially patented material that is proven to be 30% stronger than most other leading clear retainer types.

Vivera is often used as additional support for a fixed retainer, e.g. B. a bonded lingual wire (wire that is bonded to the inside of the front teeth) is used.

This forms a belt and brace approach to prevent recurrence and ensure longevity of treatment.

How long after the treatment do I have to wear the retainer?

As an adult, you will inevitably have to wear your retainers. This is to prevent relapse of treatment and ensure success.

The removable retainer is often only worn at night.

Next: Care after Invisalign treatment

Invisalign Tips:

Medically reviewed and updated on July 22, 2021