Removing Invisalign – Safely and Effectively

Invisalign has become the preferred choice for teeth alignment. According to Align Technology, the company behind Invisalign, over 10 million people worldwide have chosen the treatment since its induction in 1997. Even celebrities have chosen to use Invisalign to align their teeth. Who wouldn’t trust the technology when you have people such as Tom Cruise, Oprah Winfrey, and the gorgeous Eva Longoria endorsing it? 

Invisalign Treatment

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 96% of patients reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their Invisalign treatment. These patients’ satisfaction rates are primarily attributed to the fact that the Invisalign technology is more comfortable and convenient than traditional braces. 

For the Invisalign treatment to work effectively and for patients to get the most out of the product, it is essential that patients follow the recommended removal procedures. By correctly removing Invisalign, patients are able to maintain oral hygiene and comfort, and thus the product is more effective. 

While no specific case studies are focused solely on the removal of Invisalign, the process of removing Invisalign aligners is a crucial part of many case studies involving Invisalign treatment. The proper removal and care of the aligners are integral to the success of the treatment.

For instance, in a study published in the American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, patients were instructed on properly removing their aligners. The study found that patients who followed the proper removal and care instructions had a more successful treatment outcome and experienced fewer complications, such as aligner breakage or discomfort.

These studies only serve to underline the importance of removing Invisalign correctly. But what is the correct procedure? As an orthodontist, this is a question that my patients ask me a lot. I will outline the procedure that I recommend to my patients, along with some best practices for problems that have been reported to me. 

Understanding the Invisalign Removal Process

Using 3D imaging technology, the Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each and every patient. They are specially made to suit the patient’s needs and are designed to fit snuggly over the teeth. The aligners then apply gentle pressure to shift the teeth so they would be perfectly aligned at the end of the treatment. Flexible thermoplastic material is used to make the aligners. The material provides comfort and allows for easy removal, and makes them “invisible.” 

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Invisalign

Correctly removing the Invisalign aligners is very important, patients who have broken their aligners or damaged them because they did not follow recommended procedures. The following step-by-step process is recommended to not only preserve your aligners but to make sure that they aren’t damaged and will work as they are supposed to. 

Step 1: Pre-Removal Preparation

The first step in the process is to make sure that you are working in a clean and comfortable location. We always tell patients to use the bathroom sink, ensuring they have disinfected the area. The reason we recommend this area is that you will have the use of the mirror, which makes the process easier. Before attempting to remove your aligners, make sure that you have thoroughly washed your hands. Hygiene is a very important part of the process, and best practices should always be followed. 

Step 2: Loosening the Aligners

We always recommend starting from the back of the mouth. First, apply light pressure to break the seal between the aligners and the teeth. By using a gentle rocking motion, it will be possible to further loosen the aligners without causing damage. Remember to be gentle during the process. Don’t be rushed, and don’t use force. The easiest way to remove the aligner is to start from the back and gradually move forward until the aligners have been fully separated from the teeth. 

What Not To Do: 

• Never yank at the aligner – this can cause major discomfort and may even damage or break the aligner. 
• To avoid the risk of misalignment, it is important to remove them evenly. This will help maintain the balance of the technology. 
• We always recommend using the fingertips to remove Invisalign and applying consistent and controlled pressure during the removal process. 

How Do I Clean My Invisalign? 

It is imperative to brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice daily. Make sure to use a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste – this will remove plaque and help to maintain your oral hygiene. Use dental floss to clean between the teeth and in areas that may be hard to reach with regular brushing. Use a cleaning solution or denture cleaner to soak your aligners to keep bacteria from building up and maintain the aligners’ clarity. 

How Do I Store My Invisalign? 

To protect your Invisalign, it is crucial that you follow the correct storage methods. For safe storage, always ensure that you use the provided case. This will also prevent losing the aligner or accidentally damaging it. High temperatures can also damage the aligners, distorting them or causing warping, so keep them out of direct sunlight or high temperature. The patients who follow the storage procedure I recommend have been able to extend their Invisalign’s lifetime and have seen more effective results. 

Troubleshooting Common Challenges

Tight Aligners? 

Case studies have shown that it helps to remove the aligners more frequently if they are too tight. Aligner removal tools can also be used without causing damage to the aligners. 

Why Do My Aligners Have Buttons?

Some aligners may have buttons or attachments to facilitate the tooth movement treatment. The buttons are designed to apply specific force. You need to remove the aligner very carefully and use your fingerprints to disengage the aligner from the button points so as not to dislodge the attachments. 

It Hurts To Remove My Invisalign. What Do I Do?

The best advice we can give you is to move slowly and steadily while removing your aligners. Should you feel any soreness in the oral tissues, use a cold compress and apply gentle pressure on the outside of the mouth. 

Conclusion

We always advise regular appointments during the Invisalign treatment to keep track of a patient’s progress and answer any questions or concerns they may have. By following my recommended removal process, cleaning your Invisalign religiously, and storing them safely, you will get the best of Invisalign and will soon be wearing the smile of your dreams.