Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment because it is discrete and comfortable. You don’t have to worry about any brackets or wires irritating the insides of your cheeks or lips. There’s also no tugging or pulling on your teeth. However, you can expect your mouth to be sore for a few days after getting your aligners. Here are the tips you need to ease your discomfort.
Temporary Discomfort is Normal
No orthodontic treatment is pain-free. In fact, slight discomfort is a sign your aligners are working. Each aligner applies gentle pressure to specific teeth to gradually move them into alignment. This can make your mouth tender, especially when first getting your aligners. You may also experience tenderness when switching to the next set of aligners in your series. However, the issue is only temporary. Discomfort will become less frequent as you progress through your treatment. You can manage aligner pain by following 5 simple tips:
- Eat Soft Foods: Eat soft foods that require minimal chewing. Don’t forget to take your aligners out before having anything except water. Brush and floss your teeth and rinse your aligners before putting them back in your mouth.
- Take an Anti-Inflammatory: An anti-inflammatory or over-the-counter pain reliever can help keep you comfortable.
- Apply a Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress can numb the area to reduce pain.
- Wear Your Aligners Long Enough: You can avoid aligner discomfort by wearing them long enough each day. If you do not wear them for 22 hours per day, your teeth will not move as anticipated. Slower tooth movements can cause discomfort because your teeth won’t be in the projected positions when switching to a new set of aligners.
- Stick to Your Schedule: Your dentist will instruct you to switch your aligners every 1 or 2 weeks, depending on your needs. Switching your aligners too soon will cause your teeth to move too fast, which can be painful. However, if you don’t change your aligners on time, it can also make your mouth sore.
It may take a few days to get used to your aligners, but in no time at all, you may forget you are wearing them. When compared to metal braces, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, less noticeable treatment to fix your bike and alignment. Minor temporary discomfort is a small price to pay for straight teeth.
About Dr. William Herr
Dr. Herr earned his dental degree at the University of Maryland’s School of Dentistry and has continued his education in general dentistry, prosthodontics, oral surgery, and Invisalign. He is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the Massachusetts Dental Society. Book an appointment through his website or call his office at (508) 500-1160.
