Handling Invisalign Aligners

For decades, teeth straightening meant wearing braces. The metal edges, wires, and general discomfort were an experience many went through in grade and high school, adding to the awkwardness of growing into an adult. No surprise, many tried to avoid braces altogether. Fortunately, modern dentistry has created an alternative with Invisalign aligners at Dentistry at LaSalle in Burlington, Ontario. 

Benefits include: 

• Clear material that can’t be seen easily, even when you smile
• Effective straightening benefits without painful hardware
• Removability when your teeth need a break from the pressure involved

How to Remove Your Invisalign Aligners

Generally, Invisalign aligners are fitted to a patient’s teeth but not bonded. This removable feature, however, isn’t a loose one. It takes some effort as the aligners are snugly over the patient’s teeth. Starting off with dry hands works. Open the mouth for a second or two to allow stretching. Then work from the back to forward, releasing the aligner from the back teeth or molars to the front. Some rely on a paper towel, finding that it helps with grip. It takes practice and patience to get the hang of removing the aligners correctly. Still, others may use an aligner removal tool available online to help get under the aligner edge to loosen it. This may seem extra, but it works for some patients.

Timing the Shift to the Next Tighter Model

Aligners shifting to tighter models should be swapped out at night. This allows the teeth to adjust while sleeping, and it’s easier in the morning to remove them after the adjustment has occurred while sleeping. As the aligners work through a series, the patient will find it easier to wear tighter versions as the changes take place overnight without the distracting sensations during the day from pressure.

If the above steps are too frustrating, clear aligner therapy could help. It’s an additional patient feature provided by Dr. Swati Khanna at Dentistry at LaSalle. 

To find out more, call our office at (905) 634-9090 to make an appointment. We’d be happy to explain in person and help you with aligner adjustments.