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4 Ways to Deal with New Aligner Discomfort

Anytime you start something new, there’s bound to be some growing pains. However, some of those pains are more literal than others.

If you’ve recently started Invisalign treatment, you may be experiencing some discomfort. That’s perfectly normal, and it will go away on its own after a few weeks, but you might be wondering how to manage until then. If you need a little bit of help, here are some popular ways to deal with new aligner discomfort.

1. Pain Relievers

If you haven’t taken some already, over-the-counter pain relievers can make a massive impact on how you feel with your new aligner. Take whatever you would normally take for a headache, or for some other kind of common pain. Be sure to talk to your doctor or dentist before starting any new medication.

2. Use Invisalign Chewies

Many companies make small sponges designed to help you better fit your aligners to your teeth. By ensuring that your aligner fits well, your teeth will adjust faster to your trays, meaning you won’t be uncomfortable for nearly as long. Use these chewies every time you put your trays back in so that your teeth can fit them adequately.

3. Swish with Saltwater

This common home remedy works very well as an anti-inflammatory, so it may ease discomfort from gums that have become inflamed.  Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm (not hot!) water and swish it around in your mouth. It’s worth noting that you ought not to drink any hot or cold water, as extreme temperatures can warp your plastic aligner.

4. Make Use of Orthodontic Wax for Attachments

If you had attachments placed on your teeth, you might not be used to the way they rub against your lips or cheeks. You’ll adapt to that eventually, but in the meantime, you should make good use of orthodontic wax.

You can roll this wax into a ball and place it on the attachment that’s bothering you; this will dull their edges, making them much more comfortable.

As with all things, wearing your aligner will get easier with time. If you can bear with it, you’ll have a perfectly straight smile before you know it.

About the Author

Dr. Juan Carlos Eguren is a dentist who strives to give his patients the greatest care that oral medicine has to offer and to constantly broaden his horizons for what services he can provide. But his skills don’t end with understanding medicine; he also works incredibly hard to put his patients at ease every step of the way. Dr. Eguren was born in Lima, Peru, and he received his DDS from the Peruvian University Cayetano Heredia.

If you have any questions about Invisalign discomfort, he can be reached at his website or by phone at 780-432-3430.

We’re accepting new patients! Enguren Dentistry is accepting new patients today! Drop us a line via our booking form or give us a call at 416-224-8300 to book an appointment.

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