Life After Invisalign®
More than 22 million people have used Invisalign® to achieve their perfect smiles. But the part most people don’t always talk about is life after Invisalign. While your straightening aligners are now gone, maintenance is still important. Think retainers, touch-ups, and a few new habits that lock in your results long term.
At DentAlign NYC in Midtown East, Manhattan, New York, Kenn Kakosian, DDS, PhD, and our team carefully explain what you need to know about maintenance after your Invisalign journey. Here’s what to expect and five steps to help you keep your smile looking gorgeous right after treatment and beyond.
1. Wear a retainer
After Invisalign treatment ends, Dr. Kakosian fits you for a retainer to keep your teeth in their new alignment and prevent them from shifting out of place. You might wear a retainer during certain times of the day or at night but not as many hours each day that you wore your aligners.
There are several types of retainers, including removable retainers, fixed retainers, and clear Vivera™ retainers. The right type for you depends on your lifestyle and preferences. It’s important to clean a removable retainer as instructed by our DentAlign NYC specialists.
2. Attend retainer check-ins
Check in with our team as needed to make sure your post-Invisalign treatment is progressing effectively. Our staff can let you know when to schedule an Invisalign follow-up.
Dr. Kakosian checks your retainer to ensure it’s working as designed, and we can replace any retainer that becomes damaged or worn down.
3. Keep up healthy oral hygiene habits at home
To maintain your beautiful new smile, brush after meals, floss daily, limit sugar-sweetened foods and drinks, and avoid chewing on ice or other hard objects. Wear a mouthguard if you play contact sports to protect your smile.
4. See your dentist regularly
Visiting Dr. Kakosian regularly for a dental exam helps your teeth remain healthy and in their ideal alignment long term. Seeing our team at least twice a year allows us to detect potential dental concerns, such as tooth decay, tooth damage, or gum disease, before complications develop.
DentAlign NYC also offers routine teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, sealants, and other preventive dental care solutions that keep your smile flawless.
In addition to those regular cleanings and checkups, see us at the first sign of any new or unusual symptoms. Examples include bright red gums, bleeding gums, a toothache, discoloration, or swelling.
5. Consider teeth whitening
To brighten your new smile after Invisalign treatment and make it stand out even more, consider teeth whitening at DentAlign NYC. You can achieve beautiful results in our office or use our take-home whitening kits to make your smile shine from the comfort of your home.
To maintain a gorgeous smile for a lifetime after Invisalign treatment, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kakosian today by calling the office or requesting a visit online.
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