Are you trying to decide between metal braces and Invisalign®? You should know that there are so many benefits to choosing Invisalign. One of these is that Invisalign aligner trays are much easier to adjust to than metal braces; however, there are a few things you should keep in mind for the first few weeks of using Invisalign!
Your First Aligner Tray
It may take some getting used to, having a plastic aligner tray in your mouth all the time. Your aligner trays shouldn’t hurt or cut into your gums, but there may be some discomfort as your teeth start to gradually move to their new position. An over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen, can help with this discomfort, which you might only have when you get a new tray.
It is important to wear your tray all the time unless you are eating or drinking (of course, you can still drink water with your trays in!). You may be tempted to leave your tray out for longer than you should, especially if you are having trouble getting used to it, but remember that the longer your tray is in your mouth, the more effective it will be (and the faster you’ll get used to it).
Invisalign aligner trays don’t require much maintenance. Make sure to take them out when you are eating and drinking (even if you are just gulping down that last bit of coffee); rinse your aligner with water before you insert it; and brush your aligner once or twice a day with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. You don’t need to use toothpaste, and you should have a toothbrush that you only use for cleaning your aligners.
One last tip: don’t forget your case when you go out! You need a safe, clean place to store your tray so that it doesn’t get lost.
Within no time, you’ll be so used to your Invisalign aligners that you won’t even remember you have them in! Are you considering Invisalign? Contact Soft Touch Dentistry at either the Brighton office at (617) 782-9250 or the Newton office at (617) 332-8146. Call for an appointment today!