Invisalign treatment in Austin, TX, is a great option when your teeth need straightening. As an alternative to traditional braces, Invisalign can take less time to complete treatment. Additionally, you can wear clear aligners in public without worrying about your appearance, and because they are removable, they are easier to clean. 

However, achieving the best results takes commitment, and there are a few key ways to get the most from your clear aligners. 

Preparing Yourself for Invisalign Success 

With Invisalign, the outcome is determined mainly by the patient’s personal commitment. You will need to be able to commit to wearing your trays for 22 hours each day to achieve your desired results. 

It’s important to be in the proper mindset to take advantage of Invisalign treatment in Austin, TX. Think of your treatment as an extended time for wearing retainers instead of comparing it to traditional orthodontic treatment. Rather than wearing wires and brackets, you skip straight to the retainers!   

Tips for Your Invisalign Treatment in Austin, TX 

Listening to instructions from your orthodontic dentist on how to take care of Invisalign trays will ensure you get the best results. You can also follow these seven essential tips: 

1. Start a routine from day one.

The day you arrive home with your Invisalign supplies is day one. Practice everything your dentist told you at your insert appointment. It may be helpful to take notes while in the office to help you remember all the details. 

Create a routine, and follow it like clockwork. Brushing, flossing, and cleaning your trays must be included. Switch trays to a new set as directed to avoid delaying your treatment’s progress. 

2. Have a designated spot for your trays while eating.    

Food and drinks can stain the aligners if you’re not careful. This is why you should remove your aligners before consuming anything. Keep them in the case and have a specific place to put them, like a drawer, and use this spot every time you eat. Making this a part of your routine will prevent you from losing or breaking your aligners. 

3. Establish a reward system.  

Sometimes falling into a routine can be challenging. Develop a self-reward system for when you follow through with your treatment as motivation. For example, when you wear your Invisalign trays for 20+ hours a day during your first week, you can purchase those new shoes you’ve had your eye on. 

Discuss your reward system with someone who will hold you accountable, and plan how to celebrate together when you reach a specific goal.  

4. Complete your treatment with a friend or family member. 

Having someone to hold you accountable can create more successful results. This technique is a tool called body doubling. Adults use it to encourage them to stick to a goal or complete a project. Your body double can be a friend or partner undergoing treatment simultaneously. 

Begin by saving money for the cost of your treatment when your body double begins saving. Schedule Invisalign appointments with the same dentist around the same time, or on the same date. After starting treatment, you’ll complete it together, so you can check in and continue providing moral support throughout the process.  

5. Hold on to your old aligners. 

No matter how careful you are, unfortunately, accidents can happen. Trays can get broken, lost, or even thrown out with the trash! When this happens, you’ll need to maintain your progress until your orthodontic dentist can get you  replacement aligners. 

Your previous tray can do the job. Keeping your old trays until you’ve completed treatment will allow you to use them as a temporary retainer if the need arises, so you do not lose progress. 

6. Keep your checkup appointments.  

Wearing Invisalign means you don’t have regular appointments to adjust your braces every few weeks. Instead, you change to a new set of trays. However, you must still have occasional checkups with your dentist to ensure treatment is going according to plan. 

It’s crucial to Invisalign success that you attend these appointments. If you cannot keep your scheduled appointment, make sure to reschedule it as soon as possible. These visits are vital to ensuring you get the results you want. 

7. Don’t get discouraged. 

Feeling self-conscious about your new Invisalign trays at the beginning of treatment is common. It takes time to get used to wearing clear aligners and establishing a routine. 

Most people find it challenging to adjust to talking while wearing your aligners. The more you practice, however, the easier it will become. 

Most importantly, don’t give up on treatment. Wear your trays as directed, and give yourself time to get used to them. If you are struggling to get your hours in or experience problems with your aligners, let your dentist know—they will be happy to help.

Get fitted for Invisalign in Austin, today! 

At Parmer Lane Family Dentistry, we provide friendly, exceptional care to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. To learn more about Invisalign treatment or our other cosmetic dentistry options, contact us today.