7 Tips for Getting the Best Results with Invisalign Clear Aligners

One of the biggest reasons patients love Invisalign is the freedom it offers. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible, removable, discreet, and fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. However, that flexibility comes with responsibility. Your aligners can only do their job if you do yours.

If you want to achieve the best possible results—and avoid unnecessary delays—Dentistry by Brian Weber in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, shares seven simple tricks to help keep your treatment on track.

1. Wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily

This seems obvious, but you will be surprised how often it doesn’t happen. While Invisalign aligners are removable, they are designed to work while in the mouth. Wear your aligners for at least 20-22 hours daily. Failure to comply with this may delay results even for seemingly minor issues. To stay consistent with treatment, consider using an Invisalign time tracker and scheduling your meals to reduce the need to remove the aligners.

2. Switch to new aligners as directed

Your dentist will instruct you to switch aligners every 7-10 days. Ensure you adhere to this schedule. Don’t try to speed up your treatment by switching to the next aligner too soon. This can cause unnecessary pain or move your teeth incorrectly. Remember, each aligner is engineered to move your teeth for a particular period. Disrupting this can interrupt your treatment progress.

3. Keep your aligners clean

Good maintenance helps keep your aligners clean and infection-free. Here are the important rules for maintaining your aligners.

• Rinse them with cold water after removing them from the mouth.
• Clean them daily with a soft brush and mild soap.
• Never use toothpaste or hot water.
• Remember to keep the Invisalign case clean and dry.

It’s also important to keep your mouth clean at all times. Brush and floss your teeth after every meal, before reinserting your aligners. The goal here is to remove plaque and food debris, which can lead to decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

4. Adhere to your check-in appointments

Unlike braces, you progress through Invisalign treatment by switching from one aligner to the next at home. This means fewer dental check-ups, reducing disruptions to your everyday life. However, you still need to see your Invisalign dentist every 6-8 weeks to review your progress and give you new aligners. Don’t skip these check-ups even if everything seems fine. A week later could mean another week of treatment!

5. Consider Invisalign chewies

Chewies are soft, spongy cylinders that help your aligners fit better. They eliminate air gaps and ensure your aligners apply even pressure on your teeth. Chewies are used only every 5-10 minutes daily and can be reused until they lose their shape. Chewies are a small step that can make a significant difference in your treatment.

6. Use the Invisalign case

Losing or damaging aligners is a common concern, but you can avoid it with the right steps. To avoid loss or damage, always keep your aligners in the provided case when not in the mouth. Avoid putting aligners in napkins, pockets, bags, or other overlooked locations.

7. Wear a retainer

Many patients think treatment ends when the final aligner comes off. In reality, retaining your results is just as important as achieving them. A retainer helps keep your newly aligned teeth in position, preventing a relapse. Our dentist will advise how to wear your retainer to keep your new smile intact.

Save $1,000 on Invisalign Treatment

Ready to take the next step toward a straighter smile? Save $1,000 on Invisalign treatment, plus receive a free scan and photo appointment. Contact our office to learn more about this limited-time offer.

Restrictions Apply. Offer expires 10/31/26.

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