Are you thinking of getting Invisalign in St John’s Wood or are you already an Invisalign user? Invisalign or invisible braces are a preferred method for straightening teeth, because the devices used are more subtle and more attractive to wear overall. That said, there are a few things you should stock up on if you decide to use Invisalign. Read on to find out what you should include in your supply kit for home and while travelling.
An aligner case or pouch
Invisalign aligners should be worn 22 hours a day and should be taken out to brush your teeth, eat, and to drink anything other than water. A shared misfortune experienced by braces-wearers is losing their aligners while performing the activities mentioned above or breaking them somehow. Replacing aligner trays is not just a costly affair, but can also extend your treatment time. Consider purchasing an aligner pouch or case to store and protect your straightening device.
Cleaning supplies
Aligners can only remain invisible if they are kept clean. Cleaning detergents that can be used include Invisalign crystals, which are recommended to keep your aligner clean and odour-free. Otherwise, you can soak your plates in denture cleaner when they are due for a thorough cleaning. Soap and water is a cheaper alternative in which you can soak your aligners. Ensure that the water you use is warm; hot water will warp your retainer.
If you have no other products to keep your aligners cleaning, look for bicarbonate of soda. The baking ingredient is an effective remedy for cleaning. If you do not have the time to give your aligners a proper scrub, swab them with baby wipes. Do not use toothpaste, alcohol, bleach, and other cleaning products, as these could seriously damage your device.
Toothpaste, brush, and floss
If you are on-the-go often, it is generally a good idea to pack your teeth-cleaning supplies with you. You might not suffer the embarrassment of having food caught in the wires of a traditional brace, but you do need to keep your teeth clean regardless, when using aligner trays. Do not neglect your oral health and hygiene because of your straightening device.
Keep painkillers handy
For the most part, Invisalign aligners are comfortable to wear. However, you might experience some discomfort as your teeth and gums adapt to your retainer. Orthodontists recommend taking over-the-counter medication if the soreness becomes intolerable or intense. These medications include acetaminophen or ibuprofen. As you are required to wear multiple aligner trays, you might experience further pain when you replace one with another. Painkillers, as described above, may be prescribed to be taken for two to three days or until the sensation subsides.
Always have lip balm and orthodontic wax
Unfortunately, a side effect to wearing braces is that you might struggle with dry and cracked lips occasionally. Lip balm will help with sensitive lips. Do not use lipstick or gloss as an alternative to balm because these can stain your clear aligners and leave behind unsightly marks that you cannot remove. Additionally, orthodontic wax will help to cover the uncomfortable edges of your aligner to prevent ulcers and mouth sores.
