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 next set. 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 can also help reduce or prevent irritation in your gums, tongue, or lip by applying orthodontic wax 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. In addition, this also acts a bandage that sticks to gums or lips and can help provide hours of relief and comfort.

Advil

Over-the-counter pain relievers may be quite helpful in the first 12-24 hours of wearing your new set of aligners. Before wearing aligners for the first time, it is beneficial to take a pain reliever. This helps prevent against any initial discomfort. This will provide 6-8 hours of adjustment time so when you wake up, your aligners will already fit more comfortably.

Biotene & XyliMelts

Invisalign may cause dry mouth in some patients, especially those who do public speaking such as lectures, speeches, or business meetings. Biotene is a moisturizing mouth spray that helps fight against dry mouth 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. They are used to coat, soothe, and moisturize the mouth during the day or throughout the night.

Finding Out How To Make Invisalign More Comfortable

Dr. Harman and our team at Heidi Harman Orthodontics are experts in orthodontic care. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding Invisalign or Invisalign Teen in Kansas City MO, Brookside MO, Country Club Plaza MO, Westwood Hills MO, and the surrounding areas of Jackson County MO. Contact Heidi Harman Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation. Call now (816) 326-8944.