How to Ease Aligner Pain During Treatment

Congratulations on your new Smart Moves aligners! Now begins your journey to a straighter, healthier smile. Clear aligners offer beautiful results without the hassle of traditional braces. They’re easier to clean, work faster, and generally feel a lot more comfortable. But that doesn’t mean that you won’t experience any discomfort during your treatment. Sometimes, your teeth might be a little tender when you switch to a new aligner. If you find yourself feeling a little sore, don’t despair. Here are a few ways to help ease the pain and help you stay the course on your orthodontic odyssey!

Eat Soft Foods

If chewing hurts, eating a variety of softer foods can help alleviate some of the pressure. Dairy products like cheese and yogurt are great ways to stay healthy, while soups, pastas, stewed meats, and cooked vegetables can all make chomping a bit less uncomfortable.

Cold Compresses

Cold compresses applied outside of the mouth on the area that is sore can help ease pain and swelling caused by aligners. Try applying them in ten-minute intervals several times a day, and drink plenty of ice-cold water in between.

Keep Your Routine

While it may be tempting to take out your aligners if they’re causing you pain, they must stay in your mouth 22 hours each day to work properly. Thus, be sure to only take them out for meals, and put them back in once you have finished eating, brushing, and flossing your teeth. This will not only keep your treatment on track, but the longer you wear them, the faster your teeth will get used to them, and the pain will go away.

Wax On

If you feel any sharp edges on your aligner, you can cushion it with orthodontic wax until you can be seen by your dentist to have it adjusted. Do not attempt to cut it off or file it down, as this can cause accidental damage. If you do feel a piece poking you, make an appointment to have it fixed at your earliest convenience.

Keep it Clean

Keeping your teeth and your aligners clean during treatment is imperative in preventing cavities, stains, and gum disease. If you have bits of food or plaque stuck in between your teeth, your aligners won’t fit as comfortably, and may make wearing them a pain. Thus, be sure to take good care of them and of your teeth so you’re not putting unnecessary pressure on your jaw.

Remember, aligner pain is not a cause for alarm, and usually subsides within a few days of switching to a new aligner.  Smart Moves is a safe, effective, and very comfortable alternative to traditional braces. With proper care and some temporary adjustments, your treatment should be well tolerated and will leave you looking and feeling your best!

About Our Practice

At Gerome & Patrice Family Dentistry, we welcome patients of all ages by providing a wide range of oral health treatments and procedures. We work hard to stay current on the latest techniques in dentistry, and we strive to make you feel comfortable, cared for, and like the unique individual that you are.

To schedule an appointment for orthodontics, please visit our website or call us today at 513-677-1349.