If you’re starting your smile journey with clear aligners, welcome aboard! Invisalign treatment is a modern, effective, and discreet way to straighten your teeth, but success depends heavily on your habits and consistency.
Dr. Jordyn Middleberg and our team at Rittenhouse Orthodontics will soon be helping countless patients in Philadelphia achieve stunning, confident smiles with Invisalign. If you’re considering clear aligners or just getting started, here are five must-know tips for Invisalign patients in Philadelphia.
1. Wear Your Aligners Consistently
The golden rule: keep them in!
Invisalign is only effective when worn 22+ hours per day. That means you should only remove your trays when eating, drinking anything but water, or cleaning your teeth. The more you deviate from this, the longer your treatment might take.
Why it matters:
- Gaps or delays in wear time can cause your teeth to shift backward.
- Your trays may feel tighter when reinserted if you skip hours.
- Prolonged off-time can mean new impressions or a treatment restart.
Make it a habit:
- Set smartphone reminders.
- Store your trays in a visible place.
- Log your wear time with a tracker app.
Staying on track is the very best way to make sure Invisalign works its magic.
2. Keep Your Aligners (and Teeth) Sparkling Clean
Invisalign is nearly invisible, but not if your trays are cloudy or stained!
Cleaning tips for Philly patients:
- Rinse your trays with lukewarm water every time you remove them.
- Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste, which can be abrasive).
- Soak aligners daily in a cleaning solution or Invisalign cleaning crystals.
- Never use hot water—it can warp the plastic.
Good oral hygiene habits:
- Brush and floss before putting trays back in after meals.
- Use mouthwash for extra freshness.
A clean mouth + clean trays = a healthier smile and a more discreet appearance.
3. Stick to a Meal and Snack Schedule
Snacking with Invisalign can be a hassle, so it’s best to eat mindfully.
Why this matters:
- You must remove trays every time you eat or drink (besides water).
- Frequent snacking means frequent removal and more cleaning.
- Less time with aligners in your mouth can delay your progress.
Tips to manage:
- Plan meals and snacks in 3 sittings: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- Stick to water in between meals to stay hydrated.
- If you need a snack, make it count and brush after.
Many Philadelphia patients report eating less junk food and being more mindful during Invisalign treatment—a bonus for both your smile and your health!
4. Always Travel with a Dental Kit
Whether you’re commuting to work in Center City or heading to class on a college campus, your Invisalign care kit should be tucked away nearby.
Your travel kit should include:
- A sturdy aligner case
- A compact toothbrush and toothpaste
- Floss or dental picks
- Chewies to help seat your trays properly
- A small bottle of water
Why this helps:
- You can brush after meals on the go.
- You won’t accidentally throw aligners in a napkin.
- You’re more likely to reinsert trays promptly.
Invisalign success is all about preparation and follow-through. Keeping your kit with you makes things easier.
5. Don’t Skip Check-Ins with Dr. Jordyn
Even though Invisalign involves fewer visits than braces, it’s still crucial to check in with your orthodontist.
Our team uses these visits to:
- Monitor your tooth movement
- Make sure trays are fitting well
- Adjust or reorder trays if needed
- Keep your treatment on schedule
Many patients at our practice appreciate the use of digital monitoring tools that reduce in-person visits without sacrificing care.
Bonus tip: Jot down any issues (e.g., sore spots, tray fit) between visits so you can bring them up during your next check-in. Staying connected with your orthodontic team is how you get the best results and always gain new tips for Invisalign.
A New Neighbor
Dr. Jordyn Middleberg is a second-generation orthodontist transforming smiles throughout Philly. Known for her friendly, attentive care and digital-first treatment approach, she blends traditional orthodontic expertise with the latest clear aligner technology.
Dr. Jordyn earned her DMD from Temple University and a Master’s in Oral Health Sciences. She completed her orthodontic training at the prestigious Charles H. Tweed International Foundation and remains an active member of several professional organizations.
Invisalign is an incredible way to help you smile with confidence. Follow these five must-know tips for Invisalign patients in Philadelphia, and you’ll be well on your way to an amazing transformation. Ready to start? Dr. Jordyn and our team at Rittenhouse Orthodontics are here to help you every step of the way.