Slowly...but surely?

So in a couple days I am supposed to be switching trays. But it definitely doesn't feel ready. Usually by the first week the teeth fit in the retainers good. It's been 11 days and they still don't feel to fit right. It took a couple days to click down into place correctly. And I think it's such a big change it's taking some time. The bottoms are just not having it. They have been pretty sore the past couple weeks with all the moving. It makes biting with my front teeth a bit difficult. My tops are fine, but they go together in sets. So if I don't feel ready on Thursday (and I will try the new set on to see) I am thinking I will be wearing these an extra week. It will set me back, but it's better to give my teeth the proper time to move. It will cut down my pain, as well, because I won't be pushing it. If that's the case, I will likely call my orthodontist. They have told me that's an option in the past, but better safe than sorry. I paid for their assitance anytime I need it, so might as well use it!

I've gotten very good about brushing after I eat. At least a dry brush. It really, really helps. Another amazing trick I just discovered is...GUM! As in chewing gum. Not gums. lol! If you are out and can't brush, or are too tired/lazy to brush your teeth after you eat, just chew on a piece of gum for a couple minutes. It helps clean your teeth and freshen your mouth. Sugar free of course because sugary gum would be counterproductive. I'm loving Extra Orange Dreamsicle or Creamsicle. Whatever it's called. I haven't chewed gum much during this process, and I have missed it. So I did it on a whim and found out how beneficial it can be. I also saw orbit makes a whitening gum. So when my attachments are off, I will be checking that out for sure!

I've done lots of research and it sounds like whitening mouthwashes don't have strong enough of ingredients to do any real whitening. They may just harm your enamel. So I think I will be staying away from them. Or using it every other day or something. I have tried whitening mouthwash before prior to invisalign, but I didn't use it long enough and I always rush through brushing my teeth. So I will give that another try. Crest 3d white is a great brand. I also would love to do some kind of whitening gel or strip. Probably will end up with Crest whitestrips. I would like a cheaper option, but I don't want to ruin my teeth with less than good products. We will see when the time comes what my options really are. It looks like that will be at least 3 months away anyway.