Many people desire straighter, healthier-looking teeth, and now, thanks to clear aligners in Dryden, many people can achieve that goal. However, people share one common concern before undergoing any kind of aligning treatment- does it hurt? While any orthodontic treatment will cause some discomfort because of shifting teeth, the discomfort is minimal and very manageable. In this blog post, our Kinizsi Dental team offers tips on managing pain while undergoing treatment with clear aligners near you.
#1 Take Painkillers
This may sound obvious, but many people overlook the power of a simple over-the-counter painkiller during their treatment. While you may not be keen to pop pills all day, this could be a good solution for days when the pain is a bit too much to bear.
#2 Try a Warm Saline Rinse
This method involves taking warm water and a pinch of salt and swishing it around in your mouth. Our dentist near you says you can do this up to six times a day to alleviate your discomfort. This method has the added bonus of keeping your mouth clean and bacteria-free.
#3 Use Wax
If there is a day where your aligners are particularly uncomfortable, you can ease some of the pressure by using wax. While it may not always be the best idea to place a barrier between your aligner and teeth, a wax cushion in some areas of your mouth can provide short-term relief from discomfort. This is a good option to consider if one tooth is sorer than other areas of your mouth. Ensure that you don’t do this consistently, as it can hinder your progress.
#4 Start by Wearing Your Aligners at Night
When you first get aligners, the pain can often be more challenging to handle as your mouth adjusts to them. A good idea is to use them at night. While you are asleep, you will be oblivious to the discomfort, and it will give your mouth a lot of time to adjust to your aligners. While it may not always be possible to do this, it is worth asking about to ease your discomfort.
#5 Indulge in Some Ice-Cold Foods
Like ice can numb painful areas and reduce swelling, ice-cold foods can also help ease your discomfort. Consider buying some popsicles or sucking on some ice cubes- just be sure to remove your aligners before biting down on them. The cold will help numb your mouth and alleviate some of the discomforts you may have been experiencing. Any frozen foods can help, and lots of people enjoy snacking on frozen fruits.
#6 Visit Your Dentist on a Regular Basis
When undergoing any orthodontic treatment, it is important to visit your Dryden dentist regularly to track your progress and get help with any pain or discomfort. Ignoring your pain could lead to more harm than good, especially when it can be alleviated by a quick visit to your dental office.
If you are interested in learning more about clear aligners, how they can benefit you, and you can best manage treatment and pain, please do not hesitate to contact our team at Kinizsi Dental. We are happy to address any questions or concerns you may have and help you transform your smile. Please contact us to book an appointment today!