Getting Comfortable With Daily Invisalign Use

Teeth straightening with Invisalign® typically takes between 12 to 18 months. However, this does not rule out the possibility of discomfort during therapy. Read on to learn how to adjust to Invisalign treatment. The dentist overseeing treatment will do their best to make the entire process hitch-free; this includes providing tips to aid adjustment. Invisalign aligners function because they keep your teeth under continuous pressure. During the first two to three days of wearing new aligners, there may be some discomfort.

How to adjust to Invisalign use

The following tips may help patients get used to wearing their Invisalign aligners every day:

Use pain relievers

Patients who are due to get Invisalign clear aligners can take some over-the-counter pain medications to counter the oral pain that might occur when wearing the trays for the first time. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen are popular over-the-counter pain medications, but patients can ask their dentist for suggestions.

Remove the aligners only if necessary

Patients will experience most of the discomfort in the first two to three days of using aligners. It is essential to note, however, that each patient's pain tolerance is different. Invisalign treatment gets better with time. As patients stay consistent with wearing the aligners, the less painful they will become. When patients fail to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, they experience the pain all over again. The reason is that the teeth will not be under constant pressure to shift. The aligners should only come off when eating, drinking, or flossing.

When switching to new aligners, do it overnight

It is easier to get away with discomfort when sleeping. If this works, then consider starting a new aligner set just before bedtime. This allows patients to get through the first several hours while unconscious. Before going to sleep, taking some pain medications can help with any discomfort.

Make use of cold compresses

Invisalign discomfort may be relieved by applying a cool compress to the cheek. The compress' coolness causes the blood vessels under it to contract. Patients will experience less tooth discomfort with reduced blood circulation.

A frozen bag of peas or corn can suffice if a cold compress is not available. Wrap a kitchen towel around the bag of frozen veggies to keep the skin safe. A cold compress should never be used for more than 15 to 20 minutes at a time.

Consume soft foods

When experiencing sore teeth and gums, consider eating only soft, easy-to-chew meals. Yogurt, smoothies, spaghetti, and rice are all good options. Cool foods (like ice cream) can also be more relaxing and numbing.

The bottom line

Consider how lovely your smile will be after treatment whenever you experience a pang of discomfort. Consider how much straighter and healthier your teeth will be after you have finished your final pair of aligners. If you need help, you can always talk to your dentist to keep you motivated while you adjust to Invisalign treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.newyorkdentaloffice.com or call New York Dental Office at (212) 548-3261 for an appointment in our New York office.

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