Invisalign
SRD on Helton Drive in Florence, AL
 When it comes to straightening teeth, Invisalign is a great choice. These clear aligners are usually more comfortable than wearing braces. Clear aligners are custom made in a lab, and patients will get several trays or sets of aligners, which will slowly adjust any misalignment. Learn more about how clear aligners like Invisalign work to align teeth.
Is Invisalign Painful?
Many clients report their Invisalign pain, if any, as discomfort or pressure when their teeth shift into new positions. When patients initially obtain aligners or switch to new ones, it is usual for them to be uncomfortable. It may be unpleasant because your teeth are being positioned. There's an adjustment period for your mouth. You are shifting your teeth into a new place by installing a new aligner.
This may cause tooth soreness for a few days. Others have discomfort throughout their therapy, while others just feel it for a few days. Aligners are repositioning your teeth. If you experience some discomfort or pain, it could just be due to your teeth shifting and adjusting. It means that they're working properly.
The good news is that there are ways to reduce any discomfort experienced during your Invisalign treatment. At Singing River Dentistry we can help you get the best orthodontic care to correct your bite.
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There are several steps you can take to help alleviate any pain from Invisalign.
An Icepack Can Help
Numbing the painful area with something cold will reduce swelling. Reducing swelling can help reduce the pain. Apply the icepack or cold compress in 10-minute intervals. Try not to touch your skin directly. Wrapping the ice in a piece of cloth or towel is preferable. You can do this several times a day.
Drink Some Cold Water
Taking a sip of cold water will help to soothe the area. Using your aligners doesn't prevent you from drinking water, so you don't have to remove them to drink water. Drinking sugary drinks, such as soda or juice, will harm your teeth and can cause cavities. Your aligners should be removed when drinking anything other than water, as well as when eating.
Avoid Hard Foods
Hard foods including crackers, chips, and nuts can be troublesome to chew when your teeth are sore. Stick with soft foods like bread, tuna, hard-boiled eggs, and hummus that won't hurt when you bite into them.
Use Painkillers
Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, or another over-the-counter painkillers can help with the pain. Make sure to follow the package instructions and dose as suggested on your medication.
Invisalign pain commonly occurs after you change the aligners, so taking a painkiller before replacing the aligner can help prevent it altogether. Orajel can be applied right onto your gums or teeth where ever you are having swelling or pain. You will feel a temporary numbing effect. Be sure to remove your Invisalign before applying Orajel.
Be Patient
At first, patients are likely to feel increased pain when using Invisalign. In some cases, you might need a little time to adjust to the new norm and tough it out for a while. Any discomfort from Invisalign may disappear or significantly reduce after a few months of using your aligners.
It is usually less painful to straighten teeth using Invisalign than other techniques such as traditional braces. Many people report only mild discomfort when wearing aligners. If you do come into contact with Invisalign pain, you can reduce it in many ways.
FAQs
What is Invisalign, and how does it work?
Invisalign is a system of clear aligners custom-made to fit your teeth. These aligners gradually shift teeth into the desired position over time. Patients receive a series of trays that they change out every one to two weeks, which work to correct misalignment and straighten teeth without the need for traditional braces.
Is Invisalign painful to use?
Most patients experience mild discomfort or pressure when starting Invisalign or switching to a new set of aligners. This is a normal part of the teeth-shifting process and indicates the aligners are working effectively. Pain typically subsides within a few days of wearing the aligners.
How can I reduce discomfort while using Invisalign?
You can reduce discomfort by using cold compresses or ice packs, drinking cold water, avoiding hard foods, and taking over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. Applying Orajel to the gums can also provide temporary relief. Most patients find the discomfort lessens as they adjust to wearing the aligners.
Can I eat and drink with Invisalign aligners in place?
It is recommended to remove Invisalign aligners when eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating or drinking with the aligners in can cause damage, staining, or cavities. After meals, brush your teeth before reinserting the aligners to maintain good oral hygiene.
How long does it take to adjust to Invisalign?
Most patients adjust to wearing Invisalign within a few days to a couple of weeks. Initially, there may be some mild discomfort or pressure, but this typically subsides as your mouth gets used to the aligners. Over time, wearing Invisalign becomes part of your routine.
Why is Invisalign considered more comfortable than traditional braces?
Invisalign is considered more comfortable than braces because the aligners are smooth, custom-fit, and do not have metal brackets or wires that can irritate the gums and cheeks. Additionally, Invisalign aligners apply gentle, gradual pressure to shift teeth, reducing the pain associated with tightening braces.
Schedule Your Invisalign Consultation on Helton Drive Today!
For your Invisalign system, please visit your Florence, AL dentist at Singing River Dentistry. Contact us today at (256) 904-4220.
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