One of the biggest advantages of Invisalign is that it straightens teeth discreetly while allowing you to eat and brush without the restrictions of traditional braces. Naturally, many patients wonder if there’s a way to finish treatment even sooner. While your teeth can only move safely at a certain rate, there are several things you can do to help keep your Invisalign treatment on schedule and avoid unnecessary delays.
Wear Your Aligners as Directed
The most important factor in staying on track is wearing your aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours each day. Every aligner is designed to gradually move your teeth into a new position. If you frequently leave your aligners out, your teeth won’t move as planned.
Only remove your aligners when eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, or flossing. The more consistently you wear them, the more likely you’ll progress according to your treatment timeline.
Change Your Aligners on Schedule
Your dentist or orthodontist will provide instructions on when to switch to your next set of aligners. For many patients, this occurs every one to two weeks, depending on their treatment plan.
Don’t switch to the next aligner early unless your dental provider specifically instructs you to do so. Moving teeth too quickly can increase the risk of complications and may affect your final results.
Keep Up with Your Dental Appointments
Regular checkups allow your dental provider to monitor your progress and make sure your teeth are moving as expected. These visits also provide an opportunity to address any issues before they become larger problems that could delay treatment.
If you miss appointments, you may fall behind schedule or continue wearing an aligner longer than necessary.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Healthy teeth and gums respond better to orthodontic treatment. Brush and floss after every meal before putting your aligners back in to reduce plaque buildup and lower your risk of cavities or gum disease.
If oral health problems develop during treatment, they may need to be addressed before your Invisalign plan can continue, potentially extending your overall treatment time.
Avoid Losing or Damaging Your Aligners
Misplacing an aligner or allowing it to crack can interrupt your treatment. Always store your aligners in their protective case whenever they’re not in your mouth, and keep them away from pets, which are notorious for chewing on them.
If an aligner is lost or damaged, contact your dental office promptly for instructions rather than guessing what to do next.
Although it’s tempting to want faster results, your teeth need time to move safely. Following your dentist’s instructions, wearing your aligners consistently, and maintaining excellent oral hygiene are the best ways to complete Invisalign treatment as efficiently as possible. By staying committed to your treatment plan, you’ll be rewarded with a healthier, straighter smile that lasts for years to come.
About the Author
Frisco dentist Dr. Garry C. Phillips has an impressive 40-plus year career practicing dentistry. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and worked in the Army in a medical research unit before coming to Frisco Dental Care. He completes more than 12 hours of continuing education every year and maintains memberships in the American Dental Association, the Texas Dental Association, and The Dallas County Dental Association. Interested in Invisalign? We can help! Book your appointment online or call (972) 712-0500.