What to Expect on Your First Day with Invisalign

Invisalign is a safe, unobtrusive way to perfect your smile that is an alternative to metal braces. After you’ve consulted with your orthodontist and you’ve been fitted with your new set of aligners, your first day of wearing Invisalign can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here’s what to expect on your first day of wearing Invisalign, and a few tips to get the most out of your Invisalign experience.

Get Used to Speaking

What most people may not realize is any type of appliance in your mouth will disrupt your typical speaking patterns. This can be difficult to get used to especially on the first day. While it takes a little bit more effort than you may be used to, any change in how you speak will probably be more noticeable to you than anyone else.

Regardless, it’s always a good idea to do a few simple speech exercises when you’re alone so you can get the hang of it quickly. Some patients’ speech is more affected than others, so be sure to be patient with yourself, especially on your first day.

Invisalign Discomfort

Many Invisalign wearers feel a little discomfort in their teeth, gums, and jaw, especially on the first day of wear of each new aligner. The discomfort comes from Invisalign moving your teeth in an ideal position over time.

One way to combat discomfort is to practice chewing exercises that strengthen the jaw and help the aligner tracker more comfortably on your teeth. Orthodontic chewies are a great way to help make the aligner fit better and to promote healthy blood flow to your gums. These chewies are made from a soft material that’s easy to chew and won’t stick or damage your aligners.

Another discomfort you might find on your first day of Invisalign is that the edges of the aligners can feel odd in your mouth and may rub against your tongue, causing irritation. Try rubbing a bit of orthodontic wax on the aligner’s edges to make a smoother fit in your mouth and to protect your tongue.

Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help alleviate any discomfort you experience during your first couple days of treatment. A cool compress can also help. Extreme pain during any part of Invisalign treatment is not normal, so be sure to contact your orthodontist if you experience more than mild discomfort for a few days.

Hygiene Is Crucial during Invisalign Treatment

It’s imperative that you remove your aligners any time you eat or drink and store them in a clean, safe case so you don’t lose them. It’s also important that you brush or use mouth rinse before putting your aligners back in to remove any food remnants that could get caught between your teeth and aligners. If not properly cleaned, tooth decay can occur.

Time Is of the Essence

Invisalign is effective because it gradually adjusts your teeth to a more ideal position. In order for this to work, your aligners need to be worn at least 22 hours a day. For new wearers, it can be difficult to remember to put your aligners back in after brushing and flossing or after eating. That’s why it’s important to get in the habit of wearing your aligners by using a time-keeping system that suits you best. A simple notepad or setting alarms on your phone can help you keep track. There are even phone apps that make managing your aligner time simple.

The first day of Invisalign is exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. With these simple tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your Invisalign while minimizing any potential issues that could occur from improper use.