Invisalign Care Instructions
You’re on your way to a healthier, straighter smile — and our team at Wiesemann Orthodontics is excited to be a part of your journey.
Whether you started treatment at our Bowling Green, Russellville, Portland, White House, or South Warren office, wearing your aligners as instructed and caring for them properly will keep your treatment on track and your smile moving forward. Use this guide anytime you need a quick refresher.
Wear Time: The #1 Rule
For the best results, wear your aligners 20-22 hours per day.
That means:
- Remove your aligners only to eat or drink anything besides water
- Put them back in as soon as you finish
- Wear them while sleeping
The more consistent you are, the smoother your treatment will go. Patients who follow the wear time schedule given by Dr. Ryan Wiesemann typically see the best progress throughout Invisalign treatment.
What Can I Eat or Drink?
Good news — you can eat what you love!
Just remember:
- Remove your aligners before eating
- Remove your aligners before drinking anything besides water
- Avoid hot drinks while wearing them (heat can warp the plastic)
After eating:
- Brush your teeth if possible
- If you can't brush, rinse your mouth with water
- Rinse your aligners before putting them back in
Keeping food and sugar off your teeth helps prevent staining and cavities during treatment.
How to Clean Your Aligners
Every time you remove your aligners, rinse them with lukewarm water.
At least once daily, gently brush them with a soft toothbrush. You can also soak them in an approved denture cleaner or wash them with clear, mild soap.
When cleaning your aligners, avoid using:
- Toothpaste (it can damage the aligners)
- Hot water
- Colored soaps
- Mouthwash
Our Wiesemann Orthodontics team is happy to help you learn about approved cleaners to keep your aligners feeling fresh. Reach out to us if you have any questions.
Where to Store Your Aligners
When your aligners aren't in your mouth, they should be in their case.
Aligners shouldn't be:
- Wrapped in a napkin
- In your pocket
- On a lunch tray
- Within reach of pets (dogs love aligners!)
Lost aligners can delay your treatment. Keep them safe and always use your case.
Switching to Your Next Set
Dr. Wiesemann will tell you exactly when to switch to your next aligner set.
When switching:
- Change them at night before bed (this helps with tenderness)
- Wear the new set for the full recommended time
Some tightness is normal for the first day or two. That means your aligners are working.
Using Chewies (If Provided)
Chewies help your aligners seat properly.
To use them, bite down on the chewies for five to ten minutes per day. Focus on the areas that feel loose.
Regular use of your chewies helps your teeth track correctly and keeps your treatment on schedule.
If You Lose or Break an Aligner
Call our office right away.
Do not:
- Skip ahead without instructions
- Go days without wearing aligners
Depending on your treatment stage, we may have you wear your previous set, move to the next set, or order a replacement.
Contact our Bowling Green, Russellville, Portland, White House, or South Warren office so Dr. Wiesemann can tell you the best way to handle a lost or broken aligner. Quick action keeps your smile on track.
Keep Your Smile Healthy During Treatment
Even though your aligners are removable, keeping your teeth and gums clean is essential.
You’ll continue to brush at least twice daily, floss at least once daily, and keep up with any regular dental cleanings.
We’re Here to Help
If you have questions or concerns at any point during treatment, don’t hesitate to contact us at Wiesemann Orthodontics.
Our team proudly serves patients across Bowling Green, Russellville, Portland, White House, and South Warren, and we’re always here to help you stay on track with your Invisalign treatment.
We’re here to make your Invisalign journey smooth, comfortable, and successful every step of the way.