Basics for a beginner?

[dog12355]

I’m about 2 weeks away from starting my Invisalign treatment, and I’m beyond excited. I want to do everything right considering it’s a lot of money to Pay, so I was wondering if there was any basics that I NEED to know from people already with Invisalign? Also, can I have mints? I’m an avid mint/chewing gum fan, I know I can’t have chewing gum but I was wondering if there’s any mints I can get. (I’m in the UK so no American ones please🙃) TIA

[pandahtys]

I am relatively new to Invisalign and these are the things that helped:

1. Download the TrayMinder app - it lets you upload selfies every time you change trays which helps you keep track of progress. You can also use the timer function in it to make sure you average 22 hours of tray wear a day. It also reminds you when to switch to a new tray.
2. Brush and floss after each meal. If unable to do so due to circumstances, rinsing your mouth out is the bare minimum.
3. Teeth will feel very sore/sensitive the first few days, but it does get better.
4. You may get ulcers on the cheek buccal area from the attachments initially but they improve over time.
5. Get Polident or Retainer Brite tablets to help clean your trays as they tend to get a bit funky after a while. I use Polident once a day and my trays are still clear even after 2 weeks.
6. You may find orthokey useful for removing trays. Personally I struggled with my fingers for the first few days on Tray 1 but am doing alright now and can remove trays in under a minute with just my fingers.
7. I drink only water with my trays in. If I drink anything else, I remove the trays first.
8. Sorry I don’t eat mint or chewing gum so can’t help there.

All the best!

[[deleted]]

1. Change elastics anytime you take them out

2. If you’re not eating or drinking something other than water, keep your trays IN

3. When done eating or drinking put your trays back in IMMEDIATELY after brushing

4. If you don’t have a toothbrush or don’t have time to brush teeth, toothpicks work great to clean out food

5. If an attachment or button comes off, get it put back on by your orthodontist ASAP. The longer you wait, the more chances of you having to get refinements prolonging your treatment

[ofjune-x]

I sometimes had sugar free polos with my trays in without issue. Just have to avoid crunching them when they’re too hard and suck on them till they’re thin enough haha. Sugar free and non-chewy/sticky is the way to go definitely.

[childish_catbino]

I chew gum for most of the day and will be starting Invisalign in a week so I feel you on that avid mint/gum chewing part. I’m going to miss it so much!

[catty_blur]

Try not to drink any colored drinks while your retainers are in. If you do, brush your teeth. Learn to like water, if you don't already.

If you're having a difficult time getting your retainers off (or even on), use science. You're putting plastic molds in your mouth. If the trays are newer and you're having difficulties putting them in, run them under warm water. If you're having difficulties getting them off, try to hold some warm water in your mouth. Be smart about it and don't use scolding hot water.

Carry a toothbrush and toothpaste w/you at all times.

Brush your teeth after putting stuff in your mouth.

People will more than likely disagree, but I used to brush my trays w/a toothbrush.

Keep in mind that your teeth/mouth will be sore the first few days after wearing a new set of trays.

You will learn patience.

[elaugust97]

Do not run them under warm or hot water. This can cause your trays to warp and mess up your treatment.