What to Do If Your Invisalign Trays Feel Uncomfortable
If you’ve recently started your Invisalign treatment, you may experience some discomfort as your teeth adjust to the aligners. This is completely normal and a part of the process as your teeth shift to their new positions. While the discomfort is usually temporary, there are steps you can take to ease it and keep your treatment on track comfortably.
At Imperial Dental Associates, we’re committed to helping you feel supported throughout your Invisalign journey. Here, we’ll share expert tips to address any discomfort you may be feeling and ensure a positive treatment experience.
Use Dental Wax for Irritation
When you first begin wearing new Invisalign trays, you might notice some irritation on the inside of your cheeks or gums. This occurs as your mouth adjusts to the aligners. A simple way to manage this is by applying dental wax to the edges of your trays. The wax acts as a barrier, preventing the aligners from rubbing against sensitive areas in your mouth.
You can find dental wax at most drugstores or simply reach out to us for recommendations. Remember to reapply as needed, especially before eating or cleaning your trays.
Treat Soreness with Cold Therapy
Like any orthodontic treatment, Invisalign exerts force on your teeth to guide them into place. This can sometimes lead to mild soreness when you start wearing a new tray. To reduce this discomfort, you can use cold therapy. Rinse your mouth with cold water or gently suck on ice cubes to help numb the area and alleviate soreness.
Avoid chewing hard foods during this time, as they may exacerbate the discomfort. Instead, stick to softer options, such as soup or yogurt, during the first 48 hours with a new tray.
Maintain Your Aligners Properly
Improperly seated aligners can cause unnecessary pressure and severe discomfort. Make sure your Invisalign trays fit snugly against your teeth by "seating" them properly. Use Invisalign Chewies, small rubber-like tools that help push the aligners into place. Gently bite down on a Chewie for a few minutes to ensure your trays are sitting evenly.
Additionally, ensure your trays stay clean to avoid irritation. Brush and rinse your aligners daily to remove bacteria that could lead to gum inflammation or bad breath.
Stay Patient and Consistent
While Invisalign discomfort is temporary, it’s an essential part of treatment as your teeth move into place. Staying consistent with wearing your aligners for at least 20–22 hours a day is crucial for success. Skipping wear time can extend your treatment and make the adjustment process more uncomfortable.
If the discomfort persists or becomes severe, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re here to help address any concerns and ensure your Invisalign experience is as smooth as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign
Does Invisalign hurt?
Mild discomfort is often experienced in the first few days of wearing a new aligner, as your teeth begin to shift. However, this is typically temporary and manageable with remedies like cold therapy or over-the-counter pain relief. If the pain persists, contact your orthodontist for guidance.
How do I prevent my Invisalign trays from scratching my gums?
Sometimes, Invisalign trays may have sharp edges that irritate your gums or cheeks. You can gently file down sharp edges with a clean nail file or cover them with dental wax. Your orthodontist can also help adjust the trays if needed.
At Imperial Dental Associates, we ensure our patients have comfortable and personalized dental care at every step of their Invisalign treatment. If you have questions or need support, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.