Invisalign is one of the hottest cosmetic dentistry options available! The aligners are able to easily correct crooked teeth and provide patients with an unparalleled boost in self-confidence. But this transformation doesn’t happen overnight; the trays must be worn for 22 hours every day throughout your treatment process in order for the intended results to manifest. Here’s why this rule is so important along with some tips to help you follow it so that your treatment progress stays on track.
The Significance of the 22-Hour Rule
The 22-hour rule isn’t arbitrary or made up; there’s actually a very important reason that your Invisalign aligners need to be worn virtually all-day-long. Invisalign works by slowly shifting your teeth into a straighter and healthier position over the course of a few months (although the timeframe depends on the patient’s individual circumstances). However, since this process is gradual, the amount of discomfort that you feel is virtually nonexistent!
You’ll be instructed to wear each set of trays for a predetermined amount of time—usually two or so weeks—before advancing to the following set of trays. Each advancement is meant to match your teeth’s progress, which is why wearing the trays frequently is so important! Even missing a few days or hours can set back your treatment; that said, wearing your aligners for 22 hours, 7 days a week should be your top priority.
Five Tips to Help You Follow the 22-Hour Rule
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to ensure that you’re easily able to wear your aligners for 22 hours every day. Consider the following tips:
- Remove your aligners for a set amount of time each day – You should aim to only take your aligners out whenever it’s time to eat. Remove them for 15 minutes in the mornings for breakfast, about 30 minutes at lunchtime, and for about an hour when it’s time for dinner.
- Take good care of your aligners – If your aligners aren’t in your mouth or being cleaned, they should be safely stored in their carrying case. Damaged or lost aligners will only delay your treatment progress!
- Swap to your new set of trays before going to bed – Whenever it’s time to advance to your next set of trays, you should swap before bedtime so that you’re sleeping through the initial discomfort of wearing new trays.
- Use technology to assist you – Apps like Tray Minder can be useful for monitoring your daily wear time. Even simply setting a timer whenever you remove your aligners to eat can help you remember to replace them promptly afterwards.
- Practice excellent oral hygiene – One of the most important things you can do throughout your treatment is practice good oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing regularly is extra important if you have Invisalign; this prevents food debris from becoming trapped underneath your aligners. Maintaining a healthy and clean mouth will lower the risk of you developing a serious oral health issue that delays your treatment progress.
Knowing why the 22-hour rule is so crucial will only make it easier to follow! That said, following these tips will also ensure that your new smile is delivered right on schedule.
About the Author
Dr. Renu Michelsen received her dental doctorate from the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry and is a proud member of several professional organizations including the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. Her practice is pleased to offer many available services including Invisalign. If you have any questions about Invisalign or would like to schedule a visit, you can contact Dr. Michelsen through her practice’s website or over the phone for assistance: (714) 492-1169.
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