Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lincolnshire IL
Invisalign offers a transparent way to straighten crooked or gapped teeth. Custom-made, clear aligners are worn for 22-24 hours a day, and after a few weeks, you switch to a new set. The aligners move your teeth by applying gentle pressure. Invisalign patients generally report that their aligners are quite comfortable, considering there aren’t any metal wires or brackets to poke your gums, cheeks, or lips. But, that doesn’t mean that you might not experience some slight discomfort from time to time. Drs. Douglas Campbell and David Schmidt, Invisalign providers in Lake Forest, want to share some tips on how to curb discomfort you might experience while wearing your aligners.
How to Reduce Discomfort When Wearing Your Aligners
OTC Meds
If you’re going to experience any discomfort while receiving Invisalign treatment, it likely will happen when you switch to a new set of aligners. That’s because the new aligners are slightly different than before, and they are applying pressure in a manner that your teeth aren’t used to just yet. Aligners are switched to a new set every 3-4 weeks. If you experience any discomfort, take some over-the-counter pain relievers. Any discomfort should dissipate after a few days, once your teeth get used to the new pressure.
Remain on Schedule
When something hurts or is uncomfortable, your natural instinct probably is to stop doing what it is that’s causing the pain. But, don’t be tempted to remove your aligners or delay upgrading to your next set. Stay on schedule as not to delay achieving your overall results. If your discomfort seems too much to bear, or you feel concerned about it, just contact your Lake Forest Invisalign dentists, Drs. Campbell and Schmidt.
Switch to New Set of Aligners at Night
Since Invisalign discomfort is most likely occurring only when you switch to a new set of aligners, consider doing this at night instead of during the day. That way, you can sleep through the initial changes that you feel as your teeth adjust to the pressure of your new aligners.
Apply an Ice Pack
Consider applying an ice pack on your face for 20 minutes at a time. This may help curb the discomfort. Just be sure not to place the ice pack directly against your skin. Always wrap it in a thin towel before applying the ice pack to your face. You can apply an ice pack several times a day to manage any discomfort.
Eat Soft Foods
Invisalign discomfort is described as the teeth feeling sore or tender, especially when chewing. Consider eating soft foods or food that is easy to chew whenever you experience tooth tenderness. Eating soft food doesn’t have to mean that your nutrition suffers. You still can enjoy vegetables, but cook them just enough so that they aren’t crunchy, to make it easier to chew.
Invisalign Providers in Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lincolnshire
Despite these minor inconveniences, Invisalign remains a top choice for orthodontic treatment. It is suitable for teens and adults. If you would like to learn more about Invisalign or find out if you are a candidate, just call (847) 234-4800. Drs. Campbell and Schmidt have been providing elite dental care to the communities of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lincolnshire for more than 30 years. We welcome you to our practice.
