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As the popularity of Invisalign as a less invasive and better alternative to traditional metal braces continues to grow, a common question potential patients have about the treatment process is the amount of pain involved and if anything can be done to relieve it. 

For most patients, getting Invisalign treatment is preferable to traditional braces . However, this doesn’t mean that there will be zero discomforts or pain while receiving the treatment. Once the aligners are fitted to the patients’ teeth and it gradually begins to move the teeth into a new position, pain and discomfort may occur. Patients may also feel slight pain and discomfort every time they have to change their aligner trays to a new set. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate the pains and make the treatment process more comfortable.

Follow your orthodontist’s instructions properly

One of the key ways you can achieve a favourable outcome with Invisalign is by consulting with a qualified local Invisalign Surrey provider where the orthodontist will tailor a unique Invisalign treatment plan specifically for your case. Once your aligners have been placed, it is paramount that you adhere strictly to the instructions on how to wear, clean and take care of them properly. These instructions will also include a guide on the proper time to begin a new set of aligners which ultimately reduces the potential for pain since wearing an aligner set for too long or too early can cause pain and discomfort. 

Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken as directed to relieve pain from Invisalign. Anti-inflammatory medications like aspirin can also be used by patients who have just gotten new aligners to reduce any swelling or inflammation of the gums and tissues .

This can either be in the form of an ice pack/cold compress, cold water or ice cubes. An ice pack or cold compress can be placed against the cheek to help soothe the teeth, gums and jaw. This coldness will also help reduce any inflammation or swelling. When using an ice pack, try to avoid injury to the skin by limiting contact time to 20 minutes at most. Wrapping the ice pack in a towel or cloth is also a good idea. 

Alternatively, you can relieve pain from Invisalign by drinking cold water. This helps to reduce the pain in the mouth. Swish some ice water around the mouth to reduce pain, and inflammation and provide relief to the mouth tissues. Avoid using cold beverages like tea and soda as a substitute for cold drinking water as they can cause tooth decay. Sucking on ice cubes is also a good idea as they can provide pain relief. 

Switch to your new aligner trays just before bedtime

This is a good way to prevent some of the discomforts that comes with getting new aligners trays. By switching out your old aligner trays for the new ones just before bedtime, you will be able to sleep through the first few hours with the new aligners- which means you don’t have to deal with the discomfort while awake.

Although you take your aligners out while eating, they can leave your teeth sore and your gums tender. Try to avoid foods that are chewy, crunchy, and crispy until your teeth and gums have healed. Sticking to softer foods that require less chewing will make it a lot easier to manage your pain and discomfort.

Aligner trays need to be worn for at least 22 hours a day for them to effectively straighten your teeth. Also in addition to impeding the progress of your treatment, taking out your aligners for too long can cause them to feel tighter when you re-insert them and this can lead to discomfort. Wearing your aligners for as long as possible helps you become accustomed to them much faster and this also means less discomfort.

Experiencing a certain level of pain and discomfort with Invisalign is normal and fairly easy to alleviate. The above tips are some of the effective ways you can manage pain from Invisalign. However, if the pain is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, it is recommended that you consult your dentist immediately.

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