Invisalign offers a discreet and convenient way to straighten your teeth—but there’s one catch. To achieve the results you desire, you’ll need to wear your aligners for 22 hours a day. That leaves just two hours in total for eating, drinking, and brushing. It may seem like a challenge, but with the right strategies, you can easily hit this goal and keep your treatment on track. Continue reading to see how to win the 22-hour Invisalign challenge!
Plan Your Meals Wisely
Since you only have two hours a day without aligners, meal planning is critical for success. Instead of snacking throughout the day, try to stick to three main meals with minimal snacking in between. Here are some other great tips you can follow to make the most of mealtime:
- Meal prep in advance so you have food ready whenever you need it. This will save a lot of time and make it less tempting to snack.
- Cut back on foods that take a long time to chew, like tough meats or sticky snacks. If you do have them, try cutting them into smaller pieces to make chewing easier.
- Drink plenty of water before, during, and after meals. This will help keep you satiated until a meal and wash away lingering bacteria.
Set Timers
It’s easy to lose track of time while enjoying a good meal, especially with company. So, set a 30-minute timer on your phone for meals. If you take aligners out three times a day, that leaves a little wiggle room for snacks or coffee. If you find yourself removing them too often, try consolidating meals and drinks into fewer sittings.
Make Oral Care Quick and Efficient
Brushing and flossing after every meal is essential, but it doesn’t have to take up too much of your aligner-free time. To make your routine more efficient:
- Keep a travel toothbrush and floss with you for quick clean-ups.
- Rinse with water or mouthwash if you’re in a pinch.
- Use an electric toothbrush to make brushing faster and more effective.
Keep Your Aligners In (Even When You’re Tempted Not To)
It’s natural to want to take your aligners out when socializing, giving a speech, or just wanting a break. However, the more time they spend out, the longer your treatment will take! Stay on track by reminding yourself that Invisalign works only when it’s in your mouth—the more consistent you are, the sooner you’ll see results!
Meeting Invisalign’s 22-hour rule isn’t as hard as it sounds when you have a plan. With smart meal timing, quick hygiene habits, and mindful aligner use, you’ll breeze through treatment and get the straight smile you’ve been waiting for!
About the Practice
If you’re ready to take on the challenge and give Invisalign a try, our exceptional team at Charm Smile Dental can help. With expert care and guidance, we can help you rise to the occasion and achieve the straightened smile you’ve always wanted. Call (603) 228-0123 to schedule an Invisalign consultation with us or visit our website to explore a full menu of treatments and services.