Five Tips for Reducing Invisalign Discomfort

If you want to straighten your teeth without traditional metal braces, Invisalign® is an excellent treatment alternative. Offered at our Lake Jackson, TX dental practice, Invisalign eliminates the need for traditional braces and straightens the teeth using a series of clear, removable plastic trays.

Here, our team at Bell Dental reviews how patients can reduce Invisalign discomfort.

Should I Expect Discomfort during Invisalign Treatment?

Any time the teeth are shifted through orthodontic treatment, some discomfort should be expected. The level of tenderness will depend on the complexity of your case and the severity of your malocclusion.

It is important to note, however, that about one-third of Invisalign patients report no significant pain during treatment. Most patients say they experience mild tenderness, usually whenever they switch to a new set of aligners.

In most cases, this discomfort is short-lived and will diminish within a day or two.

Reducing Invisalign Discomfort

Discomfort during Invisalign treatment can be a nuisance. However, there are a few tips to help you minimize discomfort and enjoy a more comfortable treatment process. We will explore these in the sections below.

#1: Take over-the-counter pain relievers when necessary.

Whenever you feel soreness or tenderness, take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. This is especially useful at the beginning of treatment or during the first few days of wearing a new set of aligners.

#2: Switch to your new trays just before bedtime.

Whenever you change out your current trays for the next set in the series, try doing so just before bedtime. This will allow you to sleep comfortably through the first few hours when discomfort is at its peak.

#3: Use ice or cold compresses to alleviate discomfort.

If you experience discomfort, apply a cold compress to the external jaw. Try this in 10-minute increments two to three times a day.

You can also remove your trays for a few minutes and suck on an ice cube. This should be done only on occasion, as the aligners should be worn at least 22 hours every day.

#4: Eat a soft-food diet.

True, one of the benefits of Invisalign is that there are no diet restrictions. If you experience tenderness, however, try eating soft foods for a day or two.

#5: Wear your aligners as much as possible.

Though it may seem counterintuitive, leaving the aligner trays in as much as possible can help you become accustomed to them faster. More importantly, wearing the aligners as directed will help you stay on track and complete treatment in a timely manner.

Contact Bell Dental to Learn More

Are you considering Invisalign to straighten your teeth? Perhaps you are already undergoing treatment. Knowing what to expect during the process, including how to address discomfort, can help you enjoy a comfortable and successful experience. To learn more, or to schedule an appointment at our practice, contact us online or give us a call at (979) 297-1201.