Invisalign is a popular way to straighten crooked teeth in patients of all ages. Many people appreciate the discreet appearance of the clear-colored aligners as well as the convenient flexibility of removable appliances. And you can feel relief that Invisalign treatment will hurt significantly less than traditional braces.
Invisalign aligns your smile using custom-made trays worn over the teeth that gradually push them into your desired straighter position. The process of moving the teeth this way may result in mild headaches or slight soreness in the jaw.
Your orthodontist prioritizes your comfort. So you can feel confident that they can help you minimize this soreness for a positive experience in straightening your teeth. Read on to find advice from your orthodontist to reduce the likelihood of feeling pain from Invisalign as well as how to relieve potential oral discomfort.
How to Prevent Oral Discomfort from Invisalign
Though some pain during Invisalign treatment is normal, you can take action to reduce discomfort from these appliances. The best way to minimize discomfort is to stick to your treatment plan as your orthodontist presents. Wear Invisalign for at least 22 hours each day, including while sleeping.
If you do not keep Invisalign in your mouth for as long as needed, the teeth could begin to shift out of place. This will impact the fit of your Invisalign aligners. You might feel soreness when the teeth start to move again. Your orthodontist will also give you care advice to ensure you can clean your aligners and keep them in good shape.
Keep up with oral hygiene as well in order to prevent cavities and other dental issues that could complicate your Invisalign treatment. Gum problems or tooth decay can change your smile and make Invisalign no longer fit properly. Then you could have a greater chance of oral discomfort.
Your orthodontist can offer advice for wearing your Invisalign to further reduce potential pain. For instance, you can switch to a new set of aligners at night. This way, the initial shifting of your teeth occurs while you sleep rather than when you are awake to feel it.
Management for Soreness Caused by Invisalign
If you do suffer some pain from your Invisalign, there are several ways to find relief from this discomfort. An over-the-counter pain medication can reduce inflammation within the mouth and alleviate any resulting pain.
You may also benefit from using an ice pack on the teeth or jaw to reduce blood flow to the area and decrease pain and inflammation. Drinking a hot or chilled beverage can produce a similar soothing effect. But make sure you remove Invisalign when consuming the drink so that you do not damage the aligners.
Ask your orthodontist about oral anesthetic products as well. You can apply a numbing gel to the sore area of your mouth to block nerves from transmitting pain signals. Talk to your orthodontist to learn which products can best help you manage the side effects of Invisalign treatment.