Do you wish you can have straighter teeth? If so, you’ve probably considered getting clear aligners for a quicker and more discreet process. After around 12 to 18 months, you’ll be able to enjoy your perfectly aligned smile! However, it’s common to experience some mild discomfort during the treatment, especially when you’re getting used to how they feel. Read on to learn six ways you can minimize this while wearing your clear aligners.
#1: Take Pain Relievers
You may feel minor sensitivity during your clear aligner treatment. Fortunately, a common remedy to minimize this is to take OTC pain medication. This is especially helpful if you take one an hour before switching your trays. Once you get accustomed to the feeling, you should experience a smoother process.
#2: Use a Cold Compress
If you’re ever feeling sore, you can always apply a cold compress to alleviate the discomfort. Doing this is a great way to soothe your gum and mouth tissues. The next time you switch to a new set of trays, try pressing this or an ice pack against your cheek.
#3: Eat or Drink Cold Foods & Beverages
Similar to a cold compress, munching on or drinking cold foods and beverages during your treatment can help reduce any discomfort in your gums. These meals can include tasty treats like ice cream, yogurt, and popsicles.
#4: Avoid Crunchy Meals
Since your trays will be working to shift your smile into a proper alignment, this can cause your teeth to feel mildly sore. For this reason, it’s important to avoid hard or crunchy foods so that you don’t risk placing too much pressure on your pearly whites.
#5: Change Aligners Before Bedtime
Another way to manage discomfort is to sleep through it! Try switching to your new trays before bedtime, that way you can be resting during the first few hours where you’ll feel the most sensitivity.
#6: Visit Your Dentist Often
With regular dental checkups, your dentist can help you clean and maintain your smile during your treatment process. They can also detect any issues that could be causing any discomfort while wearing your clear aligners.
By practicing these few tips, you can feel more comfortable as you wear your clear trays. Once you’ve finished your treatment, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your perfectly straightened smile!
About the Author
Dr. Stacy Goodwill is a proud member of several prestigious groups including Spear Education, and the American and North Dakota Dental Associations. She graduated with her dental degree from the University of Nebraska College of Dentistry and has delivered outstanding and comprehensive care for over 20 years. She offers multiple advanced dental treatments, including SureSmiles Clear Aligners for straighter teeth. If you’d like to know more about easing any discomfort with clear aligners, visit her website or call 701-237-3583.