While Invisalign clear aligners are famous for being more discreet, easier to care for, and vastly more comfortable than traditional braces, it’s not uncommon to experience some minor discomfort with them, especially when advancing your trays. The good news is that this soreness shouldn’t last long. In the meantime, however, here are a few tips for making the transition feel a little better so you can continue to straighten your smile right on schedule!
Eat Soft Foods
Even though your trays are completely removable for eating and cleaning, when your teeth are sore, it can be difficult to chew. Thankfully, that doesn’t mean you need to go hungry. Just stick to a soft diet and avoid anything too chewy or sticky. Smoothies are always a great go-to, but foods like mashed potatoes, eggs, yogurt, oatmeal, and hummus are very filling and easy on the teeth, too!
Maintain Your Hygiene
Keeping your trays and your mouth clean during Invisalign treatment is an absolute must. Make sure you’re removing them each time you eat or drink anything other than water, and brush and floss your teeth before putting them back in your mouth. This will help reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease while also preventing your trays from turning colors. After all, they’re only “invisible” if they’re clear!
Wax Poetic
Although you needn’t worry about being poked in the soft tissue by wires and brackets like you would with traditional braces, if your Invisalign trays irritate your cheeks or gums, you can use some orthodontic wax to cover the offending area. Never attempt to fix these issues yourself by permanently altering the aligner. Instead, contact your dentist as soon as possible to come in and have it adjusted.
Use a Cold Compress
If you are experiencing discomfort and want instant relief, you can hold a cold compress to your cheek over the affected area for up to 20 minutes. This will numb the pain and reduce any swelling without making your teeth sensitive.
Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers
The great news is that discomfort from Invisalign aligners is usually pretty mild, but if it ever bothers you enough that the above methods don’t provide adequate relief, an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen and acetaminophen will often do the trick. Be sure to use it as directed or speak to your primary care physician if you have any questions or concerns.
Power Through It
To reduce the likelihood of experiencing discomfort, always advance to a new set of aligners at bedtime, so you can sleep through the first few hours when the discomfort is at its highest.
Finally, although taking your trays out completely may seem like an excellent solution to dental discomfort, your treatment won’t work if you aren’t compliant. Thus, even if your mouth is sore, be sure to maintain your 22 hours of daily wear time. This will keep your smile on schedule and help you get past the discomfort faster.
Remember, although soreness during Invisalign treatment is typically very mild and temporary, if you’re experiencing any discomfort, try the above suggestions for relief, and don’t give up! Your newly improved smile will be well worth it in the end!
About Dr. Morales
Born and raised in San Antonio, Dr. Tracy Morales earned her undergraduate degree at St. Mary’s University and her dental degree at Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Today, she is proud to provide a wide range of smile-improving treatments including Invisalign right here in Fort Worth. To get a straighter smile without the discomfort of traditional braces, schedule a consultation for Invisalign at Everlasting Dentistry by visiting our website or calling 817-214-3333.
