Phase One: Getting used to Invisalign
You had your consultation appointment at Platte River Orthodontics, and Dr. Chad B “SnaggleTooth” Carter took all of your scans, captured your photos, and even showed you your smile simulation. So now that you know what your new smile will look like, it’s time for the orthodontist to apply your Invisalign Clear Aligners!
Today, Invisalign serves as one of the most popular forms of orthodontic treatment because it is virtually clear, removable, and efficient! But what is it like to wear Invisalign Clear Aligners? These aligners are made out of a flexible, medical-grade plastic and are perfectly fitted to each tooth, making them more comfortable than traditional braces. Even with all of their perks, Invisalign can still take some time to get used to, so we have compiled five tips that are sure to help you get used to your Invisalign in no time!
Keep your trays in
This may sound like common sense, but one of the best ways to get accustomed to your Invisalign is to keep your trays in as often as possible. We totally understand how tempting it can be to take your trays out periodically, but it is important to leave them in as often as possible. When they start to feel a little uncomfortable, fight the urge to remove your aligners because the only way for your mouth to get used to your aligners is for you to wear them! These aligners are designed to fit tightly over each tooth so they can gently guide your teeth in place, but this does require some adjusting time for your mouth. To ensure your aligners are effectively doing their job, be sure to wear them for at least 22 hours a day every day!
Always have your case
For anything other than plain water, you will have to remove your aligners to eat or drink, so it is imperative to keep your case nearby at all times. If you keep your case on hand, you can avoid having to place your aligners on any open surfaces that may expose them to harmful bacteria. You can also prevent the last-minute napkin case from mistakenly being thrown into a garbage can when everyone’s lunch trash is collected. Keeping your case on hand will ensure you don’t lose your aligners or get them dirty. It might be hard to remember to bring your case with you everywhere you go at first, but soon it will become second nature!
Eat soft, cool foods
The good news is that, unlike patients who get braces applied, patients with Invisalign don’t feel pain or much discomfort. However, it will take some time to get accustomed to your Invisalign, so you may feel some mild tenderness when you first start wearing your aligners or after switching to a new tray. You can minimize this tenderness by eating soft, cool foods for the first few days. Avoid hard candies, crunchy snacks, sticky and chewy foods, and anything high in sugar while your mouth adjusts to having Invisalign.
If your gums or teeth are feeling sore, try grabbing a soft, cool snack like yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, or chilled fruit to soothe your mouth. After a few days, your teeth will adjust, and you will be able to eat most of your favorite foods. Whatever you decide to eat, make sure you brush and floss before putting your aligners back in your mouth.
Switch to new aligner trays before bed
A super easy way to make your transition to a new aligner easier is to change trays right before bedtime. By wearing your new aligner through the night, you are giving yourself plenty of time to adjust to the feeling of a new tray without having to deal with any discomfort or tenderness. Most people produce more saliva when they sleep, and the extra moisture will help soothe your gums as they adapt to your new aligners. Changing your trays before bedtime also means you’ll avoid your aligners rubbing on your cheeks and lips since your mouth will be relatively still throughout the night. Adjusting to your new aligners can be as simple as inserting them, catching some z’s, and feeling normal when you finally wake up!
Clean your aligners
Most patients only wear a set of aligners for one to two weeks, but it is still crucial to keep your aligners clean. If you do not properly clean your aligners, they can begin to stink and cause bad breath or an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Aligners that go uncleaned can even become discolored if they aren’t cleaned properly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, an all-purpose toothpaste, and gentle strokes to clean your aligners before rinsing them well and returning them to your mouth or to your case.
Follow these five tips, and you should adjust to your new aligners in no time! If you ever feel frustrated during your treatment process, try to remember the result will be well worth the wait. We really think you’ll love your new smile. And the journey to that new smile isn’t too shabby either!
Are you interested in receiving a free consultation to see if Invisalign is right for you or your family members? Call us today at 402-322-8838 to schedule an appointment at Platte River Orthodontics in Gretna, NE. We look forward to hearing from you!
