Our Greater Orlando Invisalign® dentists know how exciting it can be to begin the process of achieving the smile you’ve always wanted. However, adjusting to wearing clear aligners can be a bit challenging, especially during the first week.
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this initial phase smoothly and comfortably.
Understand What to Expect
Knowing what to expect can ease your transition into wearing Invisalign. Initially, you may experience some discomfort or pressure on your teeth, which is a sign that the aligners are working to shift them into the desired position. It’s also normal to have a slight lisp as you get used to speaking with the aligners in your mouth.
Our dentists recommend you practice forming words with the aligners in place as much as possible, and read aloud if needed. Don’t panic if you sound a little different; your tongue will adapt to the aligners, and the lisp will typically disappear within a few days.
Wear Your Aligners Consistently
One of the most crucial aspects of successful Invisalign treatment is consistency. You should wear your Invisalign aligners for at least 20 to 22 hours per day, removing them only for eating, drinking anything other than water, and brushing your teeth. Consistent wear ensures that your teeth move according to the treatment plan that our dentists created and helps you achieve the best results in the shortest possible time.
Ease the Discomfort When Necessary
You may have heard it before, but Invisalign works similarly to traditional metal braces. The main difference, obviously, being the absence of brackets and wires. However, because teeth are still being moved with clear aligners, discomfort is often one of the biggest challenges during the first week.
You can alleviate any mild pain you’re feeling by:
- Using Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help dull the discomfort felt by the new trays.
- Trying Cold Compresses: Placing an ice pack wrapped in a towel on your cheeks can reduce soreness and swelling.
- Switching Aligners Before Bed: If it’s time to switch to a new set of aligners, do so before bedtime. This way, you can sleep through the initial period of increased pressure on your teeth.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Just like your natural teeth, you should at least twice daily to ensure they do not stain or accumulate bacteria. It is also encouraged that you run the aligners under lukewarm water every time you take them out. Many patients find it easiest to clean them at the same time they brush their teeth throughout the day. That way, your oral hygiene never skips a beat and everything stays fresh!
We recommend always having a handy care kit with you that includes a separate toothbrush, tube of toothpaste, and a case. This way, you’re prepared when you’re at work or school and want to do more than simply rinse the trays off after a meal.
Generally, it’s best to clean your clear aligners by:
- Rinsing them with water (never hot)
- Gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Thoroughly rinsing them after brushing is done
- Storing the aligners in a protective case when not in use
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day while helps keep your mouth clean and reduces dry mouth, which can be a common issue with aligners.
Dry mouth is exactly how it sounds. It’s essentially a condition in which an individual’s salivary glands do not produce enough natural saliva to keep their mouth wet. When it happens, it can feel uncomfortable, but if it’s only caused by a lack of water, it can be easily fixed.
Remember to take your clear aligners out if you plan on drinking anything other than water or you could risk staining them. Hot beverages like coffee or tea can also potentially damage the aligners so putting them in their case until you’ve finished your drink is the best move. Also be sure to avoid overly sugary and acidic drinks, as they can increase the risk of cavities and tooth decay.
Manage Your Eating Habits
While Invisalign clear aligners are removable and allow you to continue eating most of your favorite foods, it’s essential to manage your dietary habits carefully. After all, you only have a few hours in the day when your aligners don’t have to be in to enjoy meals or small snacks.
In short, munching on chips or candy is not as easy as it used to be. Now, you have to take your trays out, eat what you’d like, clean your teeth thoroughly, and pop the aligners back in place. This can make you increasingly aware of how much you snack outside of larger meals and depending on how you look at it, can help you make more conscious food choices.
Use Your Aligner Cases
Always carry a case for your aligners to protect them when they’re not in your mouth. This prevents loss or damage, which can disrupt your treatment schedule. Avoid wrapping them in napkins or placing them in your pocket, as this increases the likelihood of misplacing them!
Send Your Invisalign Questions Our Way
Adjusting to Invisalign takes time, but the results are well worth it. Stay positive and patient, knowing that each day brings you closer to your dream smile. Keep in touch with our , for any concerns or questions—we’re here to support you throughout your treatment. Call Classic Smiles today at (407) 293-3002 to request an appointment.
