Invisalign® treatment involves wearing a series of clear aligners to gradually move your teeth. Looking after your aligners and maintaining good oral hygiene are important throughout treatment.
Your dentist will give you instructions based on your treatment plan and individual needs. If those instructions differ from the general guidance below, always follow the advice provided by your dental team.
Your dentist will show you how to insert, remove and wear your aligners.
If an aligner feels unusually uncomfortable, doesn’t fit properly or causes persistent irritation, contact your dentist rather than trying to alter it yourself.
You may notice some pressure, tightness or tenderness when you start a new set of aligners. This can occur as the aligners apply pressure to move your teeth.
It may also take some time to get used to having the aligners in your mouth.
If an edge is rubbing against your cheek, tongue or gums, or you experience significant or persistent pain, contact your dentist so the area can be assessed. Don’t modify the aligner yourself unless your dentist has specifically shown you how to do so.
Remove your aligners before eating and when drinking anything other than cool water.
Clean your aligners regularly according to the instructions provided by your dentist.
Continue brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth every day.
When your aligners are out, avoid leaving them loose on tables, wrapping them in tissues or napkins, or placing them somewhere they could be damaged or thrown away. Keep them in their case and away from pets.
Don’t try to cut, reshape or repair a damaged aligner yourself.
Follow your prescribed wear schedule and change to each new set according to your dentist’s instructions.
Keep your current and previous aligners as instructed by your dentist. If you lose or damage an aligner, contact Dentists of Ivanhoe for advice rather than continuing your treatment without guidance.
Continue attending your scheduled appointments so your dentist can monitor your treatment and address any issues with your aligners or attachments.
Finishing your aligner series doesn’t mean your teeth no longer need attention. Your dentist will advise you about retainers to help maintain the position of your teeth.
The type of retainer and wearing schedule will depend on your treatment and individual circumstances.
Contact us if:
Your dentist can assess the issue and advise you on the next step. Outside regular opening hours, you can call (03) 9499 9033 for information about our after-hours arrangements.
Severe swelling of the mouth, face or throat that affects breathing or swallowing requires emergency care. Call 000 or attend the nearest emergency department.
Do not wait for the swelling to settle if your airway is becoming affected.
Contact your dentist for advice. Depending on your treatment stage, you may be advised to wear a previous aligner, move to the next one or take another approach.
Contact your dentist if an attachment comes off. Your dental team can assess it and advise you about continuing with your aligners.
Your dentist will advise you about retainers after active treatment. The type of retainer and wearing schedule will depend on your treatment and individual circumstances.
A fee may be charged for appointments cancelled without 48 hours notice.
