As an experienced Invisalign dentist in Glasgow, I understand that starting Invisalign treatment is a big step towards the smile you’ve always wanted. It’s normal to feel a bit of discomfort as you begin wearing your new aligners.
That’s why I’m here to share some insider tips to help make your Invisalign journey as comfortable as possible. From my experience with many happy patients, I know these suggestions can really make a difference.
Whether it’s your first aligner tray or you’re well into your treatment, these practical tips will help ease your path to a straighter smile.
And if after reading this post, you still need some assistance with your Invisalign treatment, you can contact us for help!
How to Make Your Invisalign Treatment More Comfortable
#1: Use over-the-counter pain reliever during the first time wearing your aligners
When you first wear a new set of aligners, it’s not uncommon to experience some initial discomfort as your teeth begin to shift. To manage this, I recommend using an over-the-counter pain reliever.
A simple analgesic like ibuprofen can reduce both the pain and any inflammation, making your adjustment to the new aligners much more comfortable.
However, be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package, and consider taking the medication before changing to a new set of trays.
This proactive approach can help ease the transition and keep discomfort to a minimum as your smile begins to transform.
#2: Smoothing out edges with Emery board
Sometimes, new trays might have slightly sharp edges that can irritate your gums or the inside of your mouth. But gently filing these areas with an emery board can prevent discomfort, making your Invisalign aligners feel like they’re barely there.
It’s a simple trick, but trust me, it makes all the difference. Just be sure to file lightly and carefully to avoid altering the fit of the aligner.
#3: Use orthodontic wax
Another handy tip for managing discomfort during your treatment is to make use of orthodontic wax.
If you find that certain spots on your aligners are causing irritation or minor sores in your mouth, applying a small piece of orthodontic wax to those areas can provide immediate relief.
The wax works by creating a smooth barrier between your aligners and the sensitive parts of your mouth, allowing you time to adjust without unnecessary pain. It’s easy to apply and can be purchased at most pharmacies.
Even though it’s just a temporary fix, it can be incredibly effective in enhancing your overall comfort as your teeth steadily move into their new positions.
#4: Canker-X can help
This is a useful solution for people struggling with sores or ulcers from their Invisalign. Canker-X is a gel specifically designed to treat oral sores and provides a protective barrier that not only soothes the sore area but also aids in healing.
Just apply a small amount directly to the irritated spot. Canker-X is particularly useful because it adheres well to the mucous membranes inside the mouth, offering pain relief without washing away quickly.
This treatment can help reduce discomfort significantly, making it easier to continue with your Invisalign regimen without interruption.
#5: Wear new aligners when going to sleep
A useful strategy that I often recommend to my patients is to put in their new set of aligners just before going to sleep. This timing can be very beneficial because it allows you to sleep through those initial hours of adjustment when discomfort is most likely to be felt.
As you rest, your mouth will adapt to the new aligners without the immediate and constant awareness of the changes. By morning, you’ll likely find that your teeth have begun to adjust, making the plastics more comfortable to wear throughout the day.
This approach not only eases the transition into new trays but also helps ensure that you get a good night’s sleep, undisturbed by dental discomfort.
#6: Biotene & XyliMelts
Invisalign treatment can sometimes lead to dry mouth, particularly if you’re someone who frequently engages in public speaking, such as delivering lectures, speeches, or conducting business meetings.
This can feel quite uncomfortable, but fortunately, there are products like Biotene and XyliMelts that can help. Biotene is a moisturising mouth spray that offers relief by lubricating the inside of your mouth, providing hours of comfort.
For a longer-lasting solution, especially useful during work hours or overnight, XyliMelts lozenges are ideal. These lozenges coat, soothe, and moisturise your mouth, ensuring that it remains comfortable throughout your day or while you sleep.
Tips to Help You Make the Most of Your Treatment
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Don’t forget to wear your aligners
You are recommended to wear your aligners for at least 22 hours a day to make Invisalign produce the best result. Ensure you keep to this to ensure your treatment progresses as planned.
Keeping them in except when eating or drinking anything other than water helps your teeth gradually move to their new positions. This discipline is key to achieving the results you’re hoping for and can significantly shorten the duration of your treatment.
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Swap aligners as instructed
When it comes to changing your aligners, always swap them as instructed by your dentist. Typically, this will be every one to two weeks, depending on your individual treatment plan.
Adhering to this schedule ensures that your teeth move consistently and helps avoid any setbacks in your progress.
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Take out the aligners before eating
Of course, you must have heard this before. But I need to reemphasise it to make the most of your treatment. Always remember to take out your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water.
Food and coloured beverages can stain your aligners or get trapped underneath them, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Removing them helps maintain oral hygiene and keeps your treatment on track without any unnecessary complications.
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Don’t throw your last aligner away
Yes, it’s not over just yet. After moving to the next stage, it’s always recommended that you still keep your last set of aligners.
Keeping the previous set provides a backup in case the new set is accidentally damaged or lost. This way, you can ensure that your treatment doesn’t face any delays while you wait for a replacement.
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Keep your aligner clean
Keeping your aligners clean is as important as wearing them regularly. Rinse them every time you take them out and brush them gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove any buildup.
This not only maintains your oral hygiene but also prevents your aligners from becoming discoloured and noticeable. One of the reasons you chose Invisalign in the first place is because of its discreet nature.
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Don’t skip your check-ups
Lastly, don’t skip your regular check-ups with your dentist. These appointments are essential to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
Regular visits also allow your dentist to provide guidance on any concerns you might have, ensuring you get the most out of your treatment.
Need More Help with Invisalign In Glasgow?
If you’re considering Invisalign or need further assistance with your treatment in Glasgow, don’t hesitate to contact us at Sloan Dental.
We’re here to guide you through every step of your journey towards a straighter, more confident smile. Our team of experienced orthodontists is dedicated to providing personalised care and support, ensuring your experience is as comfortable and effective as possible.
Give us a call or visit our clinic; we’d love to help you achieve the beautiful smile you deserve.
FAQs
Who needs Invisalign?
Invisalign is ideal for individuals looking to correct mild to moderate dental misalignments, such as crowded teeth, gaps, and certain bite issues.
It’s a fantastic option for adults and teenagers who prefer a less noticeable, more aesthetic alternative to traditional metal braces. If you’re seeking a convenient and discreet way to improve your smile, this might be the perfect choice for you.
Is the treatment painful?
While the treatment involves some discomfort, especially when switching to a new set of plastic aligners, it’s generally not painful. The discomfort is typically due to the gentle pressure being applied to your teeth to move them into position. Most patients find that this feeling subsides a few days after fitting each new aligner.
How is Invisalign better than braces?
Invisalign offers several advantages over traditional braces. The clear aligners are virtually invisible, making them a subtler option for straightening teeth.
They are also removable, which makes eating, brushing, and flossing much easier. This can lead to better overall oral hygiene during treatment.
Is it cheaper than braces?
The cost of Invisalign is generally comparable to that of traditional braces, but it can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the duration of your treatment.
Some patients may find it slightly more expensive, while others might find it cheaper. It’s best to discuss pricing during a consultation, where we can provide a detailed estimate based on your individual treatment plan.