Invisalign is a popular option for orthodontic work, especially among adults, because it is virtually invisible. If you’re concerned about the way your teeth will look during your treatment—for example, if you work extensively with the public or appear on television as part of your job—this can be a perfect solution. You will be able to achieve properly aligned teeth without having to worry about metal braces and bands that can detract from your appearance. [pullquote]If you wear the trays just during the day, or just at night, your teeth will not move the way they’re intended to, and you will not receive the results you wish from your treatment. [/pullquote]

Wearing Invisalign Trays

Invisalign works by using clear plastic trays over your teeth. These trays are custom-made and shaped so that they move your teeth a small amount over time. Each tray is designed to be worn for about two weeks, after which you will move on to the next ray, which will shift your teeth a bit more. When you reach the last tray in the series, your teeth should be in optimum position.

For the best possible results, you should wear your Invisalign trays for at least twenty-two hours every day. This means you will have to wear them during both daytime and nighttime hours. If you wear the trays just during the day, or just at night, your teeth will not move the way they’re intended to, and you will not receive the results you wish from your treatment. Your cosmetic dentist will provide explicit instructions regarding how long you should wear your trays and how to take care of them.

Caring for Invisalign Trays

Like traditional metal braces, Invisalign trays require some special care. For example, you should rinse the trays out with cool water after every meal, and while you’re wearing the trays, you should not drink any beverages other than water. Hot beverages can warp the trays, and so should be avoided. Be sure to follow the guidelines of your cosmetic dentist regarding how long to wear your trays each day. You should also continue to brush and floss regularly and see your dentist at the doctor Family Dentistry on a regular basis to ensure your teeth remain healthy during your orthodontic treatment.

Many people think of dental health as a separate topic from overall health. However, your overall health, including the health of your bones, can affect your dental health. Conversely, your oral health can affect your overall health. This is one of many reasons it is important to take good care of your teeth and see your dentist regularly.

Bone Health and Dental Health

Problems with the health of your bones can lead to problems with the health of your teeth. This is particularly true for women, who are at greater risk for osteoporosis, or weakening of the bone tissue. Osteoporosis causes the bones to become thinner and more brittle, increasing the risk of breaks. This systemic problem occurs in approximately half of women over fifty years old, and in about one-quarter of men over fifty years old.

As the bone tissue becomes weaker, the tissue of the jawbone can also deteriorate. The teeth need healthy bone tissue in the jaws to properly anchor the tooth roots. People suffering from osteoporosis are likely to have fewer teeth than those who have healthy bones due to this deterioration of the bone tissue. Osteoporosis can also affect your ability to have dental implants placed. In addition, if you are taking certain medication for osteoporosis, it can greatly increase your chance of an unsuccessful implant procedure.

Keeping Your Teeth and Bones Healthy

If you attend to the health of your bones and teeth throughout your life, you are less likely to have problems related to osteoporosis. This includes eating a healthy diet that includes sufficient calcium, vitamin D, and other minerals and vitamins that support bone health. These vitamins and minerals also help support your dental health. You should also be sure to visit your dentist regularly so that any problems that might be developing can be diagnosed and treated promptly.

If you do discover you are suffering from osteoporosis, be sure to follow treatment guidelines provided by your doctor to keep your bones healthy and strong as long as possible. You should also be sure to let your dentist know you are being treated, in case your treatment could affect your candidacy for dental implants if you happen to lose a tooth.

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