Invisalign Tips And Tools To Make Your Treatment A Little Easier.
Things You Definitely Need During Invisalign Treatment:
I’ve been doing Invisalign since July 2021 and am near the end of my treatment, so I thought I would share some useful tools and equipment to help you get through your treatment as easily as possible! Invisalign doesn’t need to be hard or stressful if you are organised!
Waterpik Sonic Fusion 2.0 - A Waterpik or dental flosser is one of the most recommended buys by invisalign or braces users. It makes cleaner so much easier and is a lot more effective than just brushing or flossing manually. You do still need to use cotton floss though even if you use a Waterpik. Well worth the investment. There are also cordless Waterpiks, if you are someone who travels a lot (this is what I have and I love it).
Invisalign Aligner and Retainer Case - You may get one with your Invisalign package (some do some don’t it seems) but it’s also good to keep a spare. I keep one in the bathroom and one in my handbag for if eating out. There are various types and styles of cases, click HERE to view some of them. There are even those than disinfect your aligners whilst in the case!
Chewies - Nope these are not dog toys, but an essential part of making sure your trays are fitting correctly. Your dentist or orthodontist may give you a couple but they won’t last your full treatment and they are easily lost (or indeed chewed by dogs). So get yourself a pack of these. They cone in various colours and shapes. You will feel like a teething child again!
Dental Floss - You will get through a lot of this as you have to floss ofter each mean before you put your aligners back in. Waxed or unwaxed it doesn’t matter but again you will need in you bathroom but also in your work bag, gym bag or handbag. Don’t get the dental floss picks thought they don’t work well and are worse for the environment. If you’re trying to be sustainable and reduce your plastic output then check this brand HERE that is reusable/refillable glass instead of plastic.
Electric Toothbrush - Phillips Sonicare is one of the best electric toothbrushes out there. I’ve had mine for around 4 years and it’s still going strong. One of the great features is the chargeable travel case which means not having to take a bulky portable charger when traveling. Replacement heads are also easily found in most healthcare/pharmacy stores. There are various models within the Phillips Sonicare range of prices to suit every budget.
Manual Toothbrush - Obviously when you are out an about an electric toothbrush is not always appropriate so its good to have a couple of regular toothbrushes as well for when eating out or at the gym etc. I recommended a soft to medium toothbrush as your teeth and gums will be a bit more sensitive during your Invisalign treatment.
Interdental Sticks/Brush - I would not recommend the wooded ones as they splinter easily and get stuck in your gum or between your teeth. So best to stick with the plastic/rubber or bristles types. Buy in bulk as you will get through a lot of these during your treatment. They often come in little boxes you can keep in your bag when not at home. The also come in different sizes depending on the space between your teeth. If you not sure which to use speak to your dentists/hygienist.
Aligner Cleaner - Aligners are made of different material than dentures so make sure you are using a cleaner specifically for aligners. There are different types, gel, foam, tablets so just pick which you prefer. Some are also whitening as well if that’s something you are looking for.
Ultrasonic Cleaner - You don’t need one of the professional ones and these are cheap to buy. This is the best way to clean your aligners properly and to stop the trays from becoming stained with food or drink. Also doubles up for cleaning your jewellery at home instead of paying a professional, win win.
Toothpaste - I love toothpaste with baking soda in it as I find it whitens and prevents plaque build up more than other toothpastes. Also I have been reading about using toothpaste with nanohydroxyapatite which is supposed to help prevent cavities and enamel loss though they are difficult to find in physical stores so best to buy online. A plastic free toothpaste option can be found HERE.
Orthodontic Wax - Aligners and braces can be rough and irritate gums and lips/cheeks. The best way to prevent this is to use orthodontic wax on the rough edges. Comes in a small container you can carry around with you and apply ass necessary.
OrthoKey - Some aligners can be really difficult to move, especially when you have just changed trays. This OrthoKey tool makes taking trays out super easy (and maybe more hygienic).
Mouthwash - I don’t buy mouthwash, instead I use salty water every now and then. But if you do want to buy mouthwash then avoid ones with alcohol.
Travel Kit - Might be with buying a travel case which fits your aligners and a small toothbrush/toothpaste for when going out, work, travel etc. Then you can keep everything together.
Disclosing Tablets - As you know you need to be extra diligent when cleaning when wearing aligners or braces. Disclosing tablets can help you to see the spots you missing during teeth cleaning. Only need to use now and then to see how your doing. Great for showing kids how to clean their teeth also.
Lip Balm - Lips get VERY dry with aligners due to decreased saliva. You need lip balm everywhere! Pockets, bags, bathroom, bedroom etc. You will get through a lot during your treatment especially if its Winter. So stock up on your favourite!
Now hopefully you already have some of these items at home anyway but if not at least you know what you need and can order all at once! Good Luck with your Invisalign journey!
Helen x
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