Smart Moves: 6 Things to Know Before Getting This Invisalign Alternative

Do you want to straighten your teeth but want to avoid a mouth full of metal? Thankfully, you can! Over the last few decades, clear aligners have skyrocketed in popularity. With their discreet appearance, removable trays, and quicker treatment timelines, it’s not hard to see why. However, there are a few things you should know before getting Smart Moves (a popular Invisalign alternative). To learn more, read on!

#1. The Recommended Wear Time is 22 Hours

It’s true; clear aligners are entirely removable. However, that doesn’t mean you should take them out whenever it’s convenient. In fact, to stay on track with your treatment plan, you need to wear them for 20-22 hours a day. So, you should plan on only taking them out when eating, drinking anything other than water, and completing your oral hygiene routine.

#2. Lip Products Can Stain Your Aligners

Are you a self-proclaimed makeup enthusiast? Then it’s good to know heading into treatment that lip products, like glosses, lipsticks, and even colored lip balms, can stain your aligners. This can leave your trays looking discolored and your teeth looking yellow. So, it’s best to stick to clear products in the meantime.

#3. You’ll Need to Brush After Each Meal

Right now, you may only brush your teeth each morning and evening. With Smart Moves, you need to brush your teeth after each meal. This serves two purposes: keeping your teeth healthy and preserving your clear aligners.

#4. You Shouldn’t Use Hot Water to Rinse Your Trays

Rinsing your trays frequently is an important part of keeping them free of food particles, bacteria, and other debris. Just make sure to avoid hot water, which can warp their shape over time. Instead, stick to lukewarm or cold water.

#5. You Can Still Get Cavities

Although clear aligners form a barrier over your teeth, they won’t prevent cavities. Since dental problems, like tooth decay, can derail your treatment timeline, it’s important to practice proper prevention. This includes best practices like brushing for two full minutes twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist twice a year for a dental checkup and cleaning.

#6. You Can Kiss with Clear Aligners

Do you have a special someone? Don’t worry – you can still kiss with your clear aligners. Since a slight learning curve is normal, be gentle and go slow.

Before getting Smart Moves, you want to learn as much as possible about the treatment process. That way, you are prepared beforehand. Thanks to the above list, you now have more insight into what to expect!

About the Practice

Our team at Gerome & Patrice Family Dentistry is proud to offer Smart Moves Orthodontics. This Invisalign alternative offers many of the same benefits, including no metal hardware, removable aligners, and faster treatment timelines. We know that many patients have questions about the teeth-straightening process, which is why we focus on patient education every step of the way. If you have a question about Smart Moves Orthodontics or are ready to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team via our website or by phone at 513-677-1349.