The Invisalign system has become known for its distinct advantages. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are lightweight, comfortable, and most of all virtually invisible! Each set is made of smooth thermoplastic worn for about two weeks until being replaced by the following set. However, when wearing a set of aligners for the first time, some patients may experience slight discomfort or soreness until they fully adjust. Here are some tips to make Invisalign aligners more comfortable:
Emery board
It is common for Invisalign and Invisalign Teen patients to receive a new set of aligners and experience some type of discomfort in their tongue or cheek from adjusting to their Invisalign aligners. As a result, we suggest using an emery board, which is similar to a nail file, with a smooth side and a coarse side. An emery board helps with smoothing out the edges to make for a more comfortable fit.
Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is a silicone wax that applies clear for dental use. In addition to an emery board, you may also help reduce irritation or prevent soreness in your gums, tongue, or lip by applying orthodontic wax along the gum line where the aligner edges are. A small strip of wax is pushed up against the gums in order to prevent the Invisalign aligners from rubbing or irritating gums.
Advil
Over-the-counter pain medications may be helpful on the first day of wearing your new set of aligners. When wearing a set of aligners for the first time, it may be beneficial to take a pain reliever and apply aligners before sleep to prevent against discomfort and soreness. This will provide 6-8 hours of adjustment time so when you wake up, your aligners should already have a more comfortable fit.
Canker-X
Canker-X is an ointment that is used to treat canker sores and sores in the mouth. This ointment contains a topical anesthetic known as benzocaine, which helps numb the area of application. This also acts a bandage that sticks to gums to provide hours of relief and comfort. An orthodontist in Charlottesville such as Dr. Niepraschk will be there every step of the way to ensure treatment works successfully.
Biotene & XyliMelts
Invisalign may cause dry mouth in certain patients who do public speaking such as lectures, speeches, or business meetings. Biotene is a mouth spray that moisturizes to help fight against dry mouth by for hours of additional comfort. XyliMelts are lozenges that are intended to rest in between your cheek and gums in order to coat, soothe, and moisturize the mouth during the work day or throughout a night’s sleep.
Finding Out How To Make Invisalign Aligners More Comfortable In Charlottesville VA
In conclusion, Dr. Niepraschk and our team Mill Creek Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic care. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding Invisalign or Invisalign Teen in Charlottesville VA, Ruckersville VA, Palmyra VA, and Lake Monticello VA. Contact Mill Creek Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now (434) 977-9473.