Despite them being virtually invisible, there are a few things to remember when wearing an Invisalign retainer. This includes everything from how long to wear them, to how to take care of them.

Being prepared in advance will make your journey to a straighter smile even more smooth. Of course, you can always contact your orthodontist if you have any questions while about your retainer.

How Long Should I be Wearing an Invisalign Retainer?

One of the biggest benefits is you can your Invisalign retainer out to eat and drink and even for special occasions. However, you will need to wear it 20-22 hours every day for best results.

Your overall treatment time will vary based on your specific needs and customised plan. The average treatment time is 12 to 18 months. You'll get a new retainer every 1-2 weeks to gradually shift your teeth into the correct positions.

How Do I Brush My Teeth?

Unlike braces, wearing an Invisalign retainer makes doesn't change how you brush your teeth. You will need to brush them more often, though. Simply remove your retainer and brush your teeth as normal.

Now for the change. Brush your teeth after every meal. Otherwise, all the food and bacteria that build up on your teeth will end up in your retainer. This leads to more plaque buildup on your teeth. At the very least, rinse your mouth well with mouthwash before putting your retainer back in.

How Do I Care For My Invisalign Retainer?

The most important thing to remember while wearing an Invisalign retainer is to keep it safe. The last thing you want to do is accidentally drop it in the trash or leave it behind at a restaurant.

Instead, keep a hard case with you to store your retainer. Place it in your pocket or purse so it doesn't get lost or forgotten.

The next step is to clean it regularly. Bacteria can and will build up in your retainer. While Invisalign does state you can use toothpaste to clean your retainer, sometimes it's too abrasive and could damage the retainer. Instead, use the official Invisalign cleaning solution or just mild soap and lukewarm water. Never use hot water.

Brush your retainer gently while it's out of your mouth to remove any bacteria. Make this a part of your daily routine.

Wearing an Invisalign retainer isn't difficult once you get used to it. If you want to schedule an appointment or have any questions, please contact Profile Orthodontics today.