Clear aligners are some of the most sought-after solutions for straightening teeth. They are ideal for correcting problems like crooked teeth, irregularly gapped teeth and underbites. As the name implies, clear aligners are virtually invisible, which is one of their top advantages over traditional methods like braces. Therefore, they are perfect if your occupation entails lots of interactions with people, like in front office or receptionist jobs. For children and teenagers, having clear aligners may also help them blend in easily with their peers. However, like other tooth treatments, you can expect some level of pain or discomfort as your clear aligners work to move your teeth to better positions. Here are some remedies to help you manage the pain.
Watch Your Diet
Your diet will always play a pivotal role in your healing following any tooth treatment procedure. And when it comes to clear aligners, it will help to stick to soft foods and avoid hard, crunchy and chewy foods that may increase the discomfort. Therefore, you want to stay away from nuts, apples and other similar hard and crunchy foods. Instead, opt for soups, blended foods (like vegetables and fruits) and minced meat products.
Use A Cold Compress
A cold compress or an ice pack over the painful area can also help alleviate the pain. They work by numbing the area and reducing swelling and pain. You can do this repeatedly throughout the day for a few minutes at a time.
Keep Them On
Wearing your clear aligners for as long as possible may sound counterintuitive when considering pain relief. However, the longer you wear them, the faster your teeth will shift, and the sooner the pain will go away. Therefore, keep them on for as long as you can but don't forget to take them out when cleaning your teeth, eating, or when taking drinks other than water.
Consider Dental Or Orthodontic Wax
Dental or orthodontic wax can also go a long way in abating the pain from wearing your aligners. Applying the wax directly over the affected area can help provide some relief. It works by creating a buffer between your gums and the aligners, reducing irritation and discomfort.
Stick To The Schedule
It's imperative to stick to your treatment schedule and change your aligners as required. Rushing your change by switching them ahead of schedule can do more harm than good because your teeth may take longer to adjust to the new aligners. Therefore, set reminders and make appointments as necessary.
Contact an orthodontist or dentist for more information about clear aligners, such as Invisalign.
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