At first glance, it might be hard to imagine that you could prepare for Invisalign treatment. After all, it isn’t as if you can “pre-straighten” your teeth. If you could, you probably wouldn’t be getting treatment in the first place!
However, there are things you can do to make treatment go more smoothly. So, to learn how to prepare for Invisalign from your Lakewood dentists, read the following five tips.
#1. Buy All the Supplies
While you’ll automatically receive some tools after starting treatment, like the aligners and a storage case, others you’ll have to get on your own. This might include orthodontic appliances like Pull Tools. On the other hand, you might also need Tylenol or toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Make sure you have what you need to care for your aligners when you get them!
#2. Cut Back on Snacking
If you have a penchant for snacking, now’s the time to cut it out. With a 22-hour-a-day wear time, Invisalign leaves very little room for the habit.
Instead, try filling your breakfast, lunch, and dinners with more nutrient-dense filling foods, like healthy fats, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates. By doing so, you can find recipes you truly enjoy by the time your clear aligners are ready.
#3. Start Brushing After Each Meal
It would be best if you had already been brushing your teeth after meals. Still, the practice becomes even more critical after beginning Invisalign treatment. As such, you can start the habit early so it’ll be ingrained when you receive your Invisalign trays.
This familiarity will also help you navigate uncertain situations like what to do when at a restaurant, making your actual treatment experience much more seamless.
#4. Put Together a Dental Kit
As previously stated, you’ll need to brush after each meal to prevent your aligners from becoming stained, not to mention a breeding ground for bacteria. You can simplify this brushing process by assembling a dental kit before getting your first aligners. A travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, pre-threaded floss, and mini mouthwash would be a few included essentials.
#5. Figure Out the Financials
You’ll save yourself headaches down the line by getting your Invisalign payment plan settled beforehand. For instance, do you have dental insurance benefits? Does your dentist have a special offer for Invisalign patients? Would you want to space out your payments with flexible financing? By determining which solution is best for you now, you’ll be calm and ready when your dentist asks about how you’ll pay.
Your Invisalign aligners won’t be able to give you shiny, straight teeth all on their own. Thankfully, by practicing the above tips, you’ll provide them with the help they need to make your smile beautiful!
About the Author
Dr. Vincenzo Artino is a dentist practicing in Lakewood, CO, having graduated from the University of Colorado’s School of Dental Medicine. He has continually broadened his dental knowledge through hands-on experience and countless hours of continuing education. Consequently, he’s well-versed in orthodontics, dental implants, TMD, and other aspects of modern dentistry. He currently practices at Lakewood Complete Dentistry and can be reached at his website or by phone at (303)-238-2800.