How Do I Make Invisalign® More Comfortable?

Invisalign® can straighten your teeth in as little as 12 to 18 months. But because your teeth are being shifted into position, you will still experience some discomfort during treatment. Fortunately, our West MI Invisalign dentists are here to answer all your questions!

Invisalign clear aligners work because they exert constant pressure on your teeth. It’s common for patients to notice a tightness during the first 2 to 3 days of having the new top and bottom aligners in place.

Here are a few tips that can help you feel more comfortable while wearing Invisalign.

1. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

   Are you getting a new set of clear aligners soon? If so, take some over-the-counter pain relievers before your appointment with us. That way, the medication will have enough time to take effect before you wear your new aligners.Some common pain relievers found at most drugstores include ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen. Be sure to only take medication as you need it and to follow dosage instructions. Moving forward, pain relief should prove most helpful during those first few days of wearing a new set.

2. Switch to New Aligners Before Sleeping

   Sometimes it’s easier to ignore pain while you’re asleep. If you’re someone who can sleep through anything, try switching to your new aligner set right before bed. By doing this, the main adjustment period will be while you’re unconscious instead of during the work or school day.You may also want to take pain relievers to help reduce any discomfort and promote a smoother transition before drifting off to sleep.

3. Use Cold Compresses

   Holding a cold compress up to your cheek can help you numb temporary Invisalign pain. The low temperature of the compact makes the blood vessels underneath constrict. With less blood circulation, you’ll experience less dental pain.If you don’t have a cold compress, a frozen bag of peas or corn works in a pinch. Remember that if you use frozen vegetables you’ll want to wrap a kitchen towel around the bag to protect your skin. You should also never apply a cold compress for more than 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Eat Soft Foods

   Try eating soft foods that are easy to chew while your teeth and gums are still sore. Our dentists generally recommend yogurt, smoothies, pasta, soup, and rice. Cool foods (like ice cream) will also be more soothing and numbing.You’ll likely want to take a break from any food that is hard or overly chewy for at least a few days after you start wearing clear aligners. Once you’ve adjusted and your teeth feel better, you’re welcome to resume your diet.

5. Don’t Be Tempted to Remove Your Aligners

   You’ll experience the most discomfort during the first 2 to 3 days of wearing aligners. Although, it’s important to remember that each patient has a different pain tolerance.Time is your friend during Invisalign treatment. The more you wear your aligners, the sooner the initial pain will subside. If you don’t wear your aligners 20 to 22 hours a day, it’s like starting from scratch each time. This is because your teeth won’t have consistent pressure on them to move.

   Our dentists strongly recommend you only remove your clear aligners to eat, drink beverages other than water, floss, and brush your teeth.

Remember Why You Chose Invisalign

There must have been a reason why you chose Invisalign over other types of orthodontic treatment. For example, Invisalign is clear and more discreet than traditional metal braces.

Whenever you feel a twinge of pain, think about how beautiful your smile will look once you’re done. Think about how much straighter and healthier your teeth will be after your last set of aligners. Keep your motivation close to your heart and you’ll be crossing the finish line in no time!

Call MI Smiles Dental

Any Invisalign pain should subside after a few days of wearing your new aligners. But please call one of our MI Smiles Dental offices to schedule an appointment if you experience any pain or discomfort that seems out of the ordinary. Our Invisalign dentists in West Michigan can easily check your bite and aligners during your next visit.

This blog post has been updated.