One of the first things patients learn when starting Invisalign is the golden rule: wear your aligners for 22 hours a day. At first, that number can seem strict or even excessive. But there is a reason it matters. If you are undergoing Invisalign in Burnaby or considering starting soon, understanding why that 22-hour guideline exists (and what can happen if you fall short is key to achieving the results you expect).
Why 22 Hours a Day Matters
Invisalign works by applying consistent, gentle pressure to your teeth over time. Each set of aligners is carefully designed to move teeth gradually into their new position. That movement only happens when the aligners are actually in place. Removing them too often or for too long can interrupt the process and extend your overall treatment time.
The 22-hour guideline ensures that your teeth remain under continuous pressure. That consistency is what allows each aligner to do its job effectively before switching to the next set. If you wear the aligners less than recommended, the teeth may not shift as expected. This can cause discomfort when changing to a new set and may require wearing certain trays longer or redoing steps in your plan.
What Happens If You Wear Them Less?
Many patients are curious about what really happens if they wear their aligners for 18 or even 20 hours instead of 22. The truth is, those small gaps do matter. Invisalign is calibrated for near-constant wear. Losing just a few hours each day adds up quickly and can compromise progress.
Short-term consequences may include tighter or uncomfortable aligners when starting a new set, minor regression in tooth movement, or soreness that lasts longer than expected. Over time, the impact becomes more serious. Your treatment plan may take longer than estimated, and in some cases, new impressions and replacement aligners may be needed, which adds cost and delays.
Even more importantly, inconsistent wear reduces predictability. Invisalign treatment is based on a precise sequence of movements. When that sequence is interrupted, it becomes harder for your orthodontist to anticipate how your teeth will respond.
How to Stay on Track During Everyday Life
It is entirely possible to meet the 22-hour goal with a few simple adjustments to your daily habits. Many patients find that a little preparation goes a long way in keeping their treatment on track without disrupting their routine.
Start by being mindful of when and why you remove your aligners. Meals are the most obvious reason, but long social events, frequent snacking, or extended coffee breaks can chip away at your wear time. Try to plan meals together instead of grazing throughout the day, and keep a travel case and toothbrush with you so you can clean and reinsert aligners right after eating.
Tips to Build Better Invisalign Habits
Wearing your aligners consistently becomes easier when you build a routine around them. Here are a few strategies that help many patients stay disciplined:
- Set reminders to put your aligners back in after meals or coffee breaks;
- Track your wear time using a timer or a mobile app;
- Limit snacking to reduce unnecessary removals during the day;
- Bring a dental kit with toothbrush, toothpaste, and case so you’re never caught unprepared;
- Stick to a routine where oral care and aligner maintenance become natural parts of your schedule.
These habits support the consistency Invisalign needs to succeed, especially during busy or unpredictable days.
Ready to Start Invisalign in Burnaby with a Plan That Works?
If you want a treatment that fits your lifestyle without compromising results, Invisalign in Burnaby might be the right choice. Contact Metropointe Orthodontics to schedule your consultation. Our team will guide you through a personalized plan, including how to stay consistent and confident throughout your journey. Book your visit today and take the next step toward the smile you want.