If you just recently started wearing Invisalign and are experiencing some discomfort, you’re not alone. Like any other orthodontic appliance, Invisalign may cause some mild irritation at first as you’re getting used to wearing it. To help ease you into it, here are a few tips that can help relieve Invisalign discomfort in Los Angeles for a more pleasant smile journey.
Take Medicine
If you recently started wearing Invisalign or just switched to new aligners, you may be experiencing some mild pain as your teeth begin to move. Try taking headache or pain medicine to help. Make sure to check with your dentist first if you’re considering trying any new medications.
Ice It Down
Apply a cold compress or an ice pack to your face. The cold soothes sore and swollen tissue in the mouth to reduce inflammation. You can even try to numb your gums this way before you put in a new aligner tray. Eating or drinking cold things like ice cream and popsicles also helps. Just make sure to take your Invisalign out before doing so.
Gargle Saltwater
Mix half a teaspoon of table salt into a glass of warm water and swish with it. Repeat the process until the water is gone. This helps calm inflamed gums because saltwater cleanses and soothes irritated tissue.
Use Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax can be used to cover any Invisalign attachments that are irritating your gums or teeth. They will help prevent the attachments from scratching your cheeks or lips while you eat.
Avoid Crunchy or Hard Foods
After putting on new aligners, chewing hard and crunchy foods like chips will place extra pressure on your gums and teeth as they adjust to your new aligners, which can cause additional soreness. Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes and smoothies during your first couple of meals with your new aligners.
Switch to New Aligners Before Bed
The first few hours after putting on new aligners tend to be the most uncomfortable. With any luck, putting them on before bed will allow you to sleep through the initial discomfort. You may want to consider taking some dentist-approved sleep medicine so it’s easier to fall asleep.
Use Invisalign Chewies
These soft, spongy chewing devices make aligners fit more snugly. When seated securely, they eliminate airspaces and help your teeth move faster to fit the new trays.
Do Mouth Exercises
Though hard foods can make your teeth or gums ache, the act of chewing can help them move into place more quickly. This is because chewing exercises the ligaments around your teeth. Chew sugar-free gum or eat fresh veggies during Invisalign treatment to help your teeth loosen up and respond better to the new aligners.
Talk to Your Dentist
When in doubt, ask your dentist for help. During your next visit, tell them about your discomfort. They may be able to soften aligner edges that are sharper or rougher than necessary to keep them from scraping your gums. They’ll closely inspect your mouth to detect problems that may be contributing to Invisalign discomfort.
Hopefully, the above suggestions will make your Invisalign aligners more comfortable to wear. Consider speaking with your dentist so they can give you personalized tips on how to make treatment more pleasant as you work your way towards your new smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Les Latner and his team at Westside Dental Associates aim to provide high quality, compassionate care to the residents of Los Angeles. If you are looking to straighten your smile with Invisalign, they will do what they can to make treatment as pleasant as possible. Soon, you’ll be on your way to the smile you’ve always wanted! To learn more about Invisalign or for more information on how to ease aligner discomfort, visit their website or call their office at (310) 907-7987.