How to Reduce Discomfort with Invisalign?
When there is little or no jaw space, the permanent teeth can emerge crooked. A common cause of lack of jaw space is premature loss of primary teeth. This causes the surrounding teeth to shift and occupy the available spaces, closing the gaps.
When this happens, the permanent teeth can erupt on top of each other or be crooked. These problems will lead to other orthodontic issues and cause jaw problems. Visiting an orthodontist near you is crucial to discuss the various teeth straightening treatments available that you can use. One of the commonly preferred alignment devices is Invisalign because it is subtle.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign uses a series of customized, invisible, removable aligners that gently move your teeth to the right position. The removable aligners are made from comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that gently moves your teeth to the right position. These aligners are so discreet that no one will know you are wearing them.
Invisible aligners are one of the best ways to straighten teeth without braces or metal brackets. Clear, thin, and comfortable plastic material is used to make the aligners.
Are Invisalign Aligners Painful?
The Invisalign aligners are not painful, but some people can experience discomfort and soreness in the first few days. It takes a few days for the gums and the tongue to get used to the aligners. You might also feel slight pressure as the teeth shift to the new position. However, the pain is transient and clear with time, so there is no need for pain relievers unless advised otherwise by a dentist.
How to Reduce the Discomfort Caused by Invisalign?
You can reduce the pain and soreness caused by Invisalign by:
- Use cold compress
The cold compress can reduce inflammation and swelling in the gums, resulting in less pain. You can use ice cubes wrapped in a towel or cloth and apply them to the outside of the mouth, not inside it.
- Try orthodontic wax
Orthodontic wax is designed specially to deal with the pain caused by the rubbing of your braces. It prevents the pain of braces by creating a barrier between the two. This way, you will stop putting pressure on your mouth when you bite, which can irritate the gums. This wax barrier also provides extra time for your sores to heal.
- Eat soft food while you have a new aligner.
Soft foods help ease the discomfort that you may experience from your new aligner. It is important to eat these foods for about two days after getting your aligner to avoid hurting the gums.
- Follow the dentist’s instructions.
For Invisalign to work, you have to wear the trays for 22 hours a day. So unless you are eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth and flossing, you should be wearing your trays.
Leaving your aligners out for too long can prolong your treatment and make them more uncomfortable to wear. Try wearing them consistently every day to allow your mouth time to adjust.
- Wear a new aligner before sleeping
Switching to a new aligner often causes the gum area to feel tight for the first few days. But if you change your appliance an hour or two before bedtime, you will not feel anything and will be able to get a comfortable sleep.
Should I Wear My Aligner at Night?
The Invisalign aligners should be worn for at least 22 hours a day to work their magic. These invisible aligners shift your teeth into the right position gradually.
When you do not wear the Invisalign aligners for 22 hours, it can cause problems. For example, it can lead to your teeth moving back to their original position and becoming crooked again. If you fall sick and cannot wear the aligners for the recommended time, visit a dental clinic for advice and instructions.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit King and Weston Dental for more information about Invisalign and what you can expect during the procedure and after the treatment.