Starting Invisalign with Dr. Smith, Dr. Heymann, or Dr. Skillestad at Smith at Heymann Orthodontics is an exciting step toward achieving your ideal smile. Whether you’re visiting their Chapel Hill, Durham, Mebane, or Roxboro office, a little preparation and a few smart habits can make your Invisalign treatment smooth and successful.
Wear Your Aligners Like It’s Your Job
Invisalign’s flexibility is its biggest selling point, but let’s be honest—it’s also where most people slip up. Sure, you can take them out when you eat or brush, but the main idea is to wear them for at least 20–22 hours a day. Less than that, and you’re just extending the time it takes to get to the finish line.
What works for most people is to create a routine. Right after you eat, brush your teeth, clean your aligners, and pop them back in. Make it a habit. The sooner wearing them feels automatic, the easier the whole process becomes. It’s not about perfection, but consistency will get you results faster than shortcuts ever will.
Keep Those Aligners Clean (And Your Teeth Too)
Let’s talk hygiene. Your aligners are in your mouth almost all day, so keeping them clean is non-negotiable—not just for your smile but also for your health. Dirty aligners can lead to bad breath, and discoloration, and, let’s face it, the last thing you want is to swap straight teeth for cavities.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Morning and night scrub: Use a soft toothbrush to clean your aligners at least twice a day.
- Skip the toothpaste: It might seem logical, but toothpaste can actually scratch your aligners and leave them cloudy. Stick with lukewarm water and a gentle soap or aligner cleaner.
- Soak them regularly: Use denture cleaner or Invisalign cleaning crystals to give them a deep clean.
Never rinse them with hot water—unless you want them to morph into a funhouse mirror version of themselves.
Don’t Skip the Adjustment Phase
Those first few days with new aligners are not the most fun. Your teeth are shifting, and you’ll probably feel some pressure. That’s normal. Thankfully, it doesn’t last forever, and there are ways to make it manageable.
- Use orthodontic wax if the edges of your aligners rub your gums.
- Stick to softer foods for a day or two after switching to a new set.
- If needed, grab an over-the-counter pain reliever (but if something feels really off, don’t hesitate to call your Durham orthodontist).
Stay Organized With Aligner Changes
Your aligners are only as effective as your ability to stick to the plan. Switching them on time and attending regular check-ins with your orthodontist is non-negotiable. But life is busy, right? Setting reminders on your phone or keeping a calendar is a lifesaver.
Here’s something you might not have thought of: If you’re traveling or juggling a hectic schedule, pack a small aligner kit. Include:
- A toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste.
- A portable aligner case.
- Aligner-safe cleaning wipes or tablets.
This way, you’re never caught off guard, even when you’re on the go.
Don’t Compare Your Progress
This one’s for the overthinkers. You might be tempted to check every day to see if your teeth are moving. (Spoiler: They are.) But Invisalign is a process that takes time. Some people see noticeable changes early, while others might not see much until later in the treatment.
Instead of obsessing over what you can’t see, focus on the habits that make the biggest difference: wearing your aligners consistently, keeping them clean, and attending your appointments in Durham. Progress happens when you stick with it—whether you notice it right away or not.
Let’s Get That Smile Moving
Invisalign is a game-changer, but it’s not magic—you’ve got to work with it to see results. By sticking to these tips, you’ll make the process smoother and more effective, and before you know it, you’ll be flashing the smile you’ve been waiting for.
If you ever feel stuck or need guidance, Dr. Smith, Dr. Heymann, and Dr. Skillestad at Smith & Heymann Orthodontics are here for you. With locations in Chapel Hill, Durham, Mebane, and Roxboro, there’s always a friendly face nearby to help you stay on track.
Got questions? Ready for your next check-in? Reach out anytime.
