Adjusting to Invisalign: Minimizing Discomfort and Forming Good Habits

It’s no surprise that Invisalign has become such a popular means of straightening teeth. The virtually invisible plastic aligners gradually correct common problems such as gaps, an overbite, tooth crowding, and crooked teeth. And because they’re removable, you’ll have an easier time keeping your teeth clean. 

At Swinney Dental, located in Tyler, Texas, experienced dentist Dr. Kayla Morton is pleased to provide Invisalign treatment. Read on to learn more about these dental devices and how to minimize discomfort while forming good habits while wearing them.

Getting started

Once you’ve decided on Invisalign, Dr. Morton will take digital images and impressions of your top and bottom teeth. She’ll then send these materials to the Invisalign lab, where your customized trays are created based on her assessment and your treatment goals. The special 3-D digital scans enable you to see how your smile will look once you’ve completed your treatment. 

Once you have your Invisalign trays, start wearing them right away. When you first place the aligners over your teeth, they may feel a bit tight. Remember, this feeling is only temporary. Before long, the fit will feel comfortable. If the edges of the aligners reach your gums when you first place them in, Dr. Morton might reshape the edges a bit for added comfort.

Invisalign is revolutionary in that the process is virtually invisible, and treatment is usually significantly shorter than traditional metal braces.  

Forming good habits

Just as brushing and flossing regularly promotes optimal dental health, cultivating healthy habits with Invisalign can help maximize benefits while guarding against discomfort.

Here are some helpful tips to promote good habits:

• Apply an even amount of pressure to each side when placing or removing the aligners
• While wearing your aligners, avoid all foods and beverages except for water
• Clean your trays as directed using a soft-bristled brush
• Wear the aligners for 20-22 hours a day and remove them for meals and cleaning
• Visit our team regularly for scheduled follow-ups
• Switch to your next trays as directed
• Store your trays as directed in the provided case

If you accidentally lose or crack an aligner, contact our office promptly. By creating healthy Invisalign habits, you’ll make sure your teeth don’t regress back toward their original position.

If you have any questions or concerns about Invisalign during treatment, call our office. We are here to help. 

To learn more about Invisalign or get started soon, call Swinney Dental or schedule an appointment with Dr. Kayla Morton. You can also use our online booking feature.