How Can You Ease Your New Invisalign Aligner Discomfort?

Modern dental technologies and techniques have made it easier and more convenient than ever to get the aligned smile you have always wanted. You no longer have to wear the metal brackets and wires of traditional braces for months on end. Now there are more comfortable and flexible orthodontics like Invisalign! However, as your teeth are being straightened, you will need a bit of adjustment to the aligners. Read on to learn why Invisalign treatment can be a bit uncomfortable at first and what you can do to help.

Why Can Invisalign Be a Bit Uncomfortable at the Beginning?

Invisalign works by gradually applying gentle pressure to the teeth in order to shift them into the desired position. This pressure breaks down bone tissue, allowing your pearly whites to move. While the treatment is completely safe for your oral health, you may feel slight tenderness due to the force it applies to your smile. However, Invisalign is much more comfortable than traditional braces and the slight discomfort you experience in the initial days of treatment will quickly fade.

How Can You Ease the Initial Discomfort?

While the adjustment period won’t last long at all, there are some things you can do to make the first few days as comfortable as possible. Here are some helpful tips as your mouth adjusts to your new aligners:

Take a Pain Reliever

Over-the-counter pain medications can help ease the slight soreness that occurs when you begin wearing your new aligners. They are typically most effective if you take it about an hour before putting in your aligners.

Have a Cold Compress Handy

If you are experiencing soreness in your jaw, a cold compress or ice pack can do the trick! Hold it for about 20 minutes against the side of your face to reduce swelling and tenderness. You can even try numbing your gums with an ice pack before placing your trays in your mouth.

Use a Homemade Mouthwash

As a natural solution, you can mix a half teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gently swish it around in your mouth before spitting it out. Repeat this until the water is gone to decrease swelling and soothe irritated tissue.

Switch to New Aligners Before Bed

The discomfort of wearing new Invisalign aligners is usually the worst during the first hours of wearing them. Try putting in new aligners before you go to sleep so you can be asleep during the part of the treatment that makes your mouth most tender.

The journey toward a straighter smile with Invisalign is exciting. While there may be some initial discomfort, there are things you can do to make it more comfortable as your teeth begin to align!

About the Practice

Murphy Family Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry is eager to help you achieve your best smile through the expertise of its two dentists. They pride themselves on providing truly exceptional dentistry through a comprehensive range of services, including orthodontics like Invisalign. With over 20 years of experience, they can straighten your teeth successfully and comfortably with a customized plan and advanced dental technology. To schedule a consultation, contact them through their website or call (972) 516-2928.