Many people seek teeth straightening treatment as adults. Perhaps you’ve been busy building the career and family of your dreams, and now you’re ready for the smile of your dreams, too. Fortunately, you don’t have to grapple with conspicuous metal braces. Clear aligners have revolutionized teeth straightening treatments, offering a discreet and convenient solution for adults who want to improve their teeth. As you embark on your journey for a straighter smile, consider the following tips and insights that may make the process easier.

Eating habits may change

Clear aligners allow you to continue eating your favorite foods, which is a major advantage over traditional braces. However, you may find that your eating habits change during your treatment. Unless directed otherwise by a doctor, you should only drink water with aligners in. Otherwise, you should typically remove them to eat and brush your teeth before putting them back on. For the best results, it’s important to wear aligners 22 hours a day. It’s wise to plan your meals carefully to ensure you meet the recommended daily wear time. If you’re used to long, leisurely meals, that might mean changing your dining habits so your aligners aren’t out for too long. Similarly, you may not have as much time to snack during the day or sip drinks.   

Consider whitening treatments

As you pursue your perfect smile, you may want to remove discoloration in addition to straightening your teeth. Fortunately, it’s possible to whiten your teeth while you wear invisible aligners. In fact, some dentists may offer whitening treatments as part of a package alongside your aligner trays. Simply apply whitening gel to the inside of your aligners for a brighter, straighter smile. Clear aligners also have the added benefits of protecting your teeth from stains and decay and encouraging excellent dental hygiene. Even if you don’t opt for tooth whitening treatments, these changes could still help you achieve a whiter smile.

Hygiene is crucial

The long-term oral health effects and results of invisible aligners largely depend on your oral hygiene habits. If you cut any corners, you risk exposing yourself to bacteria buildup that could seriously damage your teeth. Fortunately, it’s easier to maintain oral hygiene with clear aligners than with braces. When you remove your aligners for meals, make a habit of stowing them in their carrying case. After you’re done eating, brush and floss your teeth. That could mean flossing three or four times a day, but it’s important for keeping tooth decay away. Brush or rinse your aligners before putting them back on. Each night, it’s a good idea to soak your aligners in hydrogen peroxide or a cleaning chemical your dentist provides for about five minutes.

Trust the process

For the best results, follow your preferred  dentist professional’s guidance. That typically means wearing your clear aligner for around 22 hours each day, checking in with a professional as needed and switching out your trays as you develop a straighter smile. Lifestyle adjustments—like changes in your diet or hygiene routine—may feel challenging at first, but patience and discipline pay off in the long run. If you’re looking for a way to straighten your teeth without the stress of braces, your dentist may be able to recommend clear aligners in Florida, Montana or the state you live in that fits your unique lifestyle and needs.