While Invisalign® treatment for straighter teeth and a better smile may be more discreet than traditional braces, it still requires aftercare. The staff at Hawaii Orthodontist in Honolulu understands the importance of caring for your smile after treatment. If you’ve recently completed Invisalign treatment or are considering it, the orthodontists share three tips to ensure the best smile.

3 Tips for Using Invisalign

1. Wear Retainers

You will be given a retainer to wear to help keep your teeth from reverting back to their original position. Retainers are clear and should be worn per the orthodontist’s recommendation. Often, this includes removing them to eat and sleep. You’ll also need to soak the retainers in a special product to kill bacteria. 

2. Practice Proper Oral Hygiene

An essential aspect of caring for a smile after Invisalign treatment is to practice proper oral hygiene. This means brushing and flossing at least twice a day, if not after every meal. This removes plaque from your teeth, which leads to decay and cavities. Additionally, because Invisalign keeps your teeth covered, you may notice some sensitivity once treatment is completed. Your orthodontist may recommend sensitive toothpaste temporarily while teeth readjust.

3. Continue Regular Dental Visits

Schedule regular dental appointments twice a year after treatment has concluded. It can be tempting to skip dental visits, but these checkups are crucial to ensuring you’re practicing the best oral hygiene habits possible. The orthodontist can also check that the retainers fit properly and aftercare is working as intended.

If you live on Oahu, trust Hawaii Orthodontist for your Invisalign and traditional orthodontic treatments. With expert and compassionate staff, the orthodontists will evaluate your needs and recommend the most beneficial treatment possible. Call (808) 947-3737 to schedule an appointment. Additional information about staff, services, and the practice can be found on the website.