Smooth Sailing with Invisalign: 5 Ways to Relieve Discomfort

Going through your teeth straightening journey with clear aligners can be very exciting. By the end, you’ll have perfectly aligned teeth, but since they aren’t the same as traditional braces, people tend to ask, “Does Invisalign hurt?” While first starting treatment or switching to a new set of trays can cause some discomfort, there are tricks you can do to lessen the soreness! To ensure your smile stays on track, here are five helpful tips to deal with new aligner discomfort.

1.)  Continue to Wear Your Aligners

The main reason your teeth feel tender with Invisalign is that they apply gentle pressure to shift your teeth. In order for them to correct your misalignment, it's crucial to wear them for 20-22 hours a day. Thankfully, your mouth will get used to having your Invisalign trays in, but you have to keep them in despite any discomfort. The good news is that the sore feeling means they are working!

2.)  Drink Some Cold Water

Having a cold glass of water is a great way to help ease your transition by soothing the muscles in your mouth. You can also apply a cold compress to your cheek for about 10-minute intervals.

3.)  Use Dental Wax

Sometimes, the edges of your Invisalign trays may be a little rough. That may irritate your gums and tongue, but dental wax is a safe way to create a barrier over the edges. With a small piece of wax, you roll it up and gently mold it against the rough areas.

Also, keep in mind that if you’re having consistent trouble with your aligners, let your dentist know! Having them double-check the fit of the trays can ensure that they stay as comfortable as possible.

4.)  Eat Soft Foods at First

If your teeth are sore, then it can be harder to enjoy your favorite crunchy snacks or chewy meals. Stick to a soft food diet for the first few days while you are adjusting to your new aligners. Smoothies, eggs, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are yummy options that don't require much chewing. Remember that following a softer diet is only temporary, and in no time, you can switch back to your regular meals.

5.)  Take Over-the-Counter Medication

Some extra help from pain relievers can ease some discomfort you’re feeling. Always be sure to follow the instructions that are listed on the label and don’t hesitate to let your dentist know if you’re unsure about anything!

It's true that it can take a short couple of weeks before you're used to your clear aligners. By following these tips, your journey to a straighter smile will be smooth sailing. Once you finish with the treatment, you may even look back on your experience and think it was worth it to have a healthier smile.

About the Practice

At San Antonio Smiles Dental & Orthodontics, we want your orthodontic treatment to be as comfortable as possible. Led by Dr. Gonzales, we use state-of-the-art technology to create a customized treatment plan to give you efficient results. To learn more about how Invisalign can benefit you, request an appointment or call us at (210) 737-6900.