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Invisalign is designed to be comfortable. However, as with any orthodontic treatment, it comes with a degree of inevitable soreness, which may be especially noticeable when you switch to a new aligner. That soreness is actually a good thing because it means your treatment is doing its job! However, you may still wonder if there is anything you can do to ease Invisalign discomfort in Bustleton. Here are some practical tips to help you out.
Eat and Drink Cold Items
Cold helps to ease swelling and soreness in the mouth. Sipping on cold water while you are wearing your aligners can help to soothe irritated gum tissues and may even provide a degree of numbing. When you take your aligners out for a meal, you could end the meal with a sugar-free popsicle or even a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Just try to avoid ice cream that has nuts or other hard add-ins; such foods might worsen mouth soreness.
Swish with Saltwater
Warm saltwater can reduce swelling in the mouth and ease pain. Simply dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Sip, swish, and spit out. Repeat until you work your way through the entire glass. You can use saltwater once or twice a day to relieve pain associated with your orthodontic treatment.
Switch to a New Aligner Before Bed
If you start with a new aligner in the morning, you might find yourself struggling with a sore mouth throughout the day. It may be better to switch to a new aligner at night instead. You will thus be able to sleep through the initial adjustment period. When you wake up in the morning, you can give your mouth a break when you remove your aligner to eat breakfast and care for your oral hygiene.
Take Pain Medication as Necessary
Over the counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen may work to relieve the discomfort associated with Invisalign. You might try taking the painkiller about an hour before you switch to a new aligner so you will already be feelings its effects by the time you otherwise begin to experience oral soreness. However, keep in mind that it isn’t recommended to rely on painkillers. It’s fine to take them occasionally, but you don’t want to depend on them every time you start with a new aligner.
Ask Your Dentist for Help
If the edge of one your aligners is rough, your cosmetic dentist may be able to soften it so it is more comfortable to wear. You shouldn’t try to do so at home because you might end up accidentally making your aligner unusable.
A degree of soreness with Invisalign is normal, but with the above tips, you can make your treatment process as easy and comfortable as possible.
Meet the Practice
The five dentists at Dentex Dental Group have decades of combined experience. Drs. Karina Aloian and Alexander Zilberman are both certified Invisalign providers. If you have questions about clear aligner treatment or how you can make the Invisalign process as easy as possible, they would be pleased to talk with you. Contact our practice at 215-677-3904.