The Invisalign system has become popular for the various advantages it offers. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign aligners are lightweight, comfortable, and most importantly, virtually invisible! Clear aligners are made of a smooth thermoplastic intended for maximum comfort. Aligners are worn for about two weeks each, until being replaced by the following set in the series. However, some patients may experience slight discomfort or soreness when wearing a new set of aligners for the first time until their mouth adjusts. Here are some helpful tips on how to make Invisalign more comfortable:
Emery board
Many Invisalign and Invisalign Teen patients receive a new set of aligners and experience some initial slight discomfort from the edge of their Invisalign aligners. In order to resolve this issue, we recommend using an emery board, which is similar to a nail file, featuring a smooth side and a coarse side. An emery board may help with smoothing out the edges for a more comfortable fit.
Orthodontic wax
Orthodontic wax is a silicone wax that is made for dental use and applies clear. In addition to using an emery board, you can also apply orthodontic wax along the gum line to help reduce or prevent irritation in your gums, tongue, or lip. A small strip of wax is pushed up flat against the gums to prevent Invisalign aligner edges from irritating gums.
Canker-X
Canker-X is an ointment used for the treatment of canker sores and other sores in the mouth. This ointment contains a topical anesthetic known as benzocaine, which helps numb the area of application. In addition, canker-x also acts a bandage that sticks to gums or lips to provide hours of comfort and relief.
Advil
A Cortlandt Manor orthodontist such as Dr. Glaser may prescribe medication for pain if necessary. However, over-the-counter pain relievers are very helpful in the 24 hour adjustment period with your new set of aligners. When wearing clear aligners for the first time, it may be beneficial to apply aligners and take aspirin before sleep to prevent discomfort and soreness. As a result, your aligners should have a more comfortable fit by the time you wake up.
Biotene & XyliMelts
Invisalign may cause dry mouth in some patients, especially those who do public speaking such as speeches, lectures, or business meetings. Biotene is a moisturizing mouth spray that prevents dry mouth by lubricating the inside of your mouth for hours of additional comfort. XyliMelts are lozenges that rest in between your cheek and gums in order to coat, soothe, and moisturize the mouth throughout the day or night.
Finding Out How To Make Invisalign More Comfortable
Dr. Glaser and our team at Glaser Orthodontics are experts in orthodontics. We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding Invisalign or Invisalign Teen in Cortlandt Manor NY, Croton-On-Hudson NY, Jefferson Valley NY, Buchanan NY, Montrose NY, Yorktown Heights NY, and the surrounding areas of Westchester County NY. Contact Glaser Orthodontics today to schedule a free consultation. Call now (914) 739-6400.