The Invisalign system has become known for the many advantages it offers. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign is lightweight, comfortable, and most of all virtually invisible! Clear aligners are made of smooth thermoplastic for maximum comfort. Each set is worn for about two weeks until being replaced by the following set in the series. However, when wearing a new set of aligners for the first time, some patients may experience slight discomfort or soreness until their mouth and teeth adjust. Here are some tips to make Invisalign more comfortable:
Emery board
It is common for Invisalign and Invisalign Teen patients to receive a new set of aligners and experience slight discomfort in their tongue or cheek from an edge of their Invisalign aligners. To resolve this issue, we recommend using an emery board, which has a smooth side and a coarse side, similar to a nail file. An emery board may help with smoothing out the edges to make for a more comfortable fit.
Orthodontic wax
Orthodontic wax is a silicone wax that applies clear and is made for dental use. In addition to an emery board, you may also reduce or prevent irritation in your gums, tongue, or lip by applying orthodontic wax. Orthodontic wax is applied along the gum line where the aligner edges are located. A small strip of wax can be pushed up flat against the gums to prevent the Invisalign aligners from rubbing and irritating the gums.
Canker-X
Canker-X is an ointment that is used to treat canker sores and sores in the mouth. This ointment contains benzocaine, which is a topical anesthetic that will help numb the area of application. Although, this also acts a bandage that sticks to gums or lips and can help provide hours of relief and comfort.
Advil
According to a Philadelphia orthodontist, over-the-counter pain relievers may be quite helpful in the first 12-24 hours of wearing your new set of aligners. It may be beneficial to take a pain reliever before wearing a new set of aligners for the first time. It is recommended to apply aligners before sleep in order to prevent against soreness and discomfort. As a result, this provides 6-8 hours of adjustment time. As a result, your aligners should already have a more comfortable fit by the time you wake up.
Biotene & XyliMelts
Invisalign may cause dry mouth in some patients. This is more frequent for those who do public speaking such as lectures, speeches, or business meetings. Biotene is a moisturizing mouth spray that helps fight against dry mouth. Biotene works by lubricating the inside of your mouth 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 More Comfortable
In conclusion, Dr. Farrow and our team at Farrow Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic care. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding Invisalign or Invisalign Teen in Philadelphia PA, Mt Airy PA, Wyndmoor PA, West Oak Lane PA, and Glenside PA. Contact Farrow Orthodontics to schedule a free consultation today. Call now (215) 569-9060.