5 Tips to Make New Aligners More Comfortable

Back in the day, the only way to get the straight teeth you always wanted was by wearing metal braces. While effective, the wires and brackets can cause irritation (as well as being obvious to the eye). Fortunately, Invisalign changed the orthodontic game! With its clear, custom-made aligners, you can comfortably and discreetly achieve an aligned smile. However, there can be a bit of adjustment time getting used to your new aligners. Here are five helpful tips to make them more comfortable.

#1. Apply Orthodontic Wax

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners rarely cause major irritation to your lips, tongue, or inside of your cheeks. The dental-grade, high-quality plastic lies smoothly inside your mouth. However, if you do experience a bit of discomfort as you get adjusted to your oral appliance, you can simply apply some orthodontic wax to the particular area. By shaping it over the edge, your mouth will feel at ease once again.

#2. Limit Hard and Crunchy Foods

One of the many bonuses of Invisalign treatment is that you don’t have to restrict your diet. While no foods are technically off limits, it’s best to avoid hard or crunchy foods right before switching aligners. Instead of popcorn, apples, or chips, opt for softer choices like yogurt, soft cheeses, and oatmeal.

#3. Use a Cold Compress

If you are experiencing a bit of discomfort due to inflammation of your gums, then a cold compress should do the trick! By placing it on the outside of your cheek for about 10 minutes of a time, your mouth should feel better as the day goes on. You can always wrap some ice in a towel or sip on some cold water if you don’t have a cold compress ready to go.

#4. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Medication

If you still seem to not get the relief you need, then you can ask your orthodontist about taking some over-the-counter pain medication. They may recommend a specific anti-inflammatory one or provide other tips. For example, the best time to take it may be 30 minutes before switching to a new aligner.

#5. Switch to New Aligners at Night

A helpful tip to keep your Invisalign discomfort to a minimum is by switching to your new aligners at night. This ensures that you will be sleeping during the hours when your mouth will feel the most sensitive. When you wake up in the morning, your teeth are likely to be more adjusted and less sore.

Luckily, Invisalign aligners are only uncomfortable for a short amount of time. With these helpful tips, you can continue your journey to a straight smile with ease and comfort!

About the Practice

Serenity Orthodontics helps people of all ages achieve their dream smile at six different locations through the expertise of their team of dentists. Their goal is to help you get straight teeth with long-lasting results while also making the process as smooth and pleasant as possible. With personalized treatment plans from advanced dental experts, they provide a full range of orthodontic services, including Invisalign treatment. To schedule an appointment, contact them through their website or call (470) 589-4475.