Now that you have started Invisalign, you may be excited about getting the straight smile that helps you feel more confident. You’ll get a healthier bite, but since this type of orthodontics is different from traditional braces, many people wonder, “Does Invisalign hurt?” Some discomfort is expected as it means your treatment is working, but here are four ways that you can manage the sore feeling.
1.) Get the Full 22-Hour Wear Time
You will have to wear your clear aligners for 20 to 22 hours every day. This will put a gentle, consistent pressure on your teeth to shift them into their desired positions. While it may be tempting to remove your trays to get some relief, doing so can be a bad idea. You may delay your treatment or make it take longer to adjust to them. The more that you have them in, the faster your mouth can get used to having aligners!
2.) Drink Cold Water or Take Pain Relievers
While you are reaching your full wear time, you can drink some cold water to reduce soreness. The lower temperature helps soothe the muscles in your mouth. You may also use a cold compress for 10-minute sessions if your teeth are a bit more sensitive.
Many people find success in taking some over-the-counter medications. It’s always best to follow the instructions on the bottle or talk to your dentist about what they would recommend.
3.) Use Dental Wax
The edges of your Invisalign trays may be what’s causing your discomfort. They can sometimes irritate your gums and tongue, but this can be fixed with some dental wax. You simply roll up a small ball of it and gently press it against the parts that are hurting. With this barrier, you may start to feel some relief.
That being said, if you are experiencing consistent issues with your aligners, then it might be best to talk to your dentist. By having them double-check the fit, you can ensure there are no problems that are getting in the way of comfort.
4.) Adjust Your Diet
If you are just starting Invisalign or swapping over to your next set, you are likely to feel sore for a bit. That’s because your teeth are actively shifting, so eating chewy or crunchy foods can increase your discomfort. Instead, stick to soft options, such as smoothies, mashed potatoes, and yogurt. You give your teeth a break from biting, which can help reduce any tender feeling. Thankfully, this is only temporary! In no time, you’ll be able to enjoy your regular diet once again.
Try out these tips above as you go through your smile-straightening journey. After a short adjustment period, you’ll be on smooth sailing toward a healthy bite that you feel better in.
About the Author
Dr. Zachary Brice earned his dental degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio Dental School. With his knowledge and expertise, he helps give the community the confident smiles that they deserve. By fixing up misalignment with Invisalign, Dr. Brice will be with you every step of the way to make it easier for you. If you want to learn how clear aligners can benefit you, schedule an appointment or call his office at (210) 903-5565.