If you are considering clear aligner teeth straightening such as clear aligner in Park Ridge, one of the many questions that you may have is whether or not it is painful. The short answer? Some level of discomfort is normal but generally the pain is mild, tolerable and temporary. If you know what to expect, it may make those first few days far less intimidating.
What Makes Clear Aligner Treatment Painful?
Clear aligners function by gently, but steadily applying pressure to shift your teeth into a more aligned position over time. That pressure which may especially be felt when you put in a new aligner tray can lead to mild pain or tenderness in your teeth and gums. This is totally normal and usually goes away after a few days.
Some patients also experience slight irritation from the edges of the aligners as they can irritate your cheeks or tongue. This generally dissipates as your mouth conforms and usually the trays can be trimmed by your dentist if necessary.
For How Long Does the Discomfort Continue?
Patients typically experience the greatest discomfort during the initial 24 to 72 hours in a new set of aligners. Then that pressure goes away as your teeth start to shift to their new positions. By the end of that first week, most experience notable reductions in any lingering soreness some even find it has gone altogether.
It’s critical that you wear your aligners as directed, for 20 to 22 hours a day, in order to help make the adjustment of mouth tissues happen more quickly and reduce discomfort.
Clear Braces vs. Traditional Braces: Which is More Comfortable?
Most patients find clear aligners more comfortable to wear than metal braces. There are no brackets and wires to rub against them; only smooth plastic trays that are moulded to fit your mouth so it shifts them rapidly. One advantage to them, as with other types of aligners, is that they’re removable and you can take them out when you eat or brush. That can make the more comfortable and less work.
Remedies To Relieve Clear Aligner Pain
The following are some easy, effective strategies for discomfort during treatment:
Change to fresh trays before going to bed and you will count the pain of, well, adjusting as sheep.
Stick to soft eats in the first days after changing trays.
Cold water helps stop the pain and inflammation.
If the edges of your aligners are sharp or just plain uneven, pick up some orthodontic wax and mold it over the rough spots.
Take now over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed by your dental provider.
The team at your trusted Park Ridge Invisalign provider is able to tailor specific advice for dealing with the discomfort and ensuring your comfort throughout treatment.
When to Contact Your Dentist
If your pain doesn’t start getting better within a week, or if you have sharp pain, swelling or difficulty speaking and eating, make sure to reach out to your provider. These are signs that something may be amiss with your aligners, or another problem which needs to be fixed.
Conclusion
Sure, clear aligner treatment isn’t totally pain-free, but when it comes to discomfort, generally no news is good news. With the proper care and experienced assistance, most patients find that the experience is well worth it. When you select Invisalign in Park Ridge, you’ll have experienced dental experts by your side to help lead the way and make it as convenient and comfortable as possible on your pathway to a straighter smile that stands out.
Dr. Antonia is the author of this article, To make an appointment with cosmetic dental veneers in Park Ridge IL, please visit the link dentistinparkridge.com
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