What To Expect On Your First Day With Invisalign

January 10, 2020

Are you about to start your Invisalign treatment in Franklin, MA?

Then check out this short blog post from Franklin Dental Arts to learn what to expect on your first day:

1. Some Slight Discomfort

Unfortunately, it won’t be love at first wear, even with Invisalign aligners. Though they are a lot more comfortable than traditional metal braces, you can still expect some tightness and discomfort.

Invisalign works by putting pressure on your teeth to move them and lead to a straight smile. This sensation doesn’t last for very long, however, as your teeth will become accustomed to your new aligners in a few days. OTC medications can also help relieve the symptoms.

2. Feeling Strange When Talking

Until you get used to wearing the aligners, it may feel strange to speak, like you’re doing it with a strange object in your mouth.

You can practice talking with Invisalign in front of a mirror to get used to the movements. Some people can have minor lisps because of Invisalign, though they're easily corrected as you practice.

In most cases, any changes Invisalign makes to your speech will be more noticeable to you than to those around you.

3. Remembering to Take Out Your Aligners

You need to take out your aligners before eating or drinking anything other than plain water. While it’s not a difficult thing to do, you may need to actively remind yourself to do it in the first few days until it becomes a habit.

Always keep the aligners in their special tray while enjoying your meal, and rinse them in cold water before putting them back in. Overall, you should be wearing them for at least 22 hours a day, so don’t keep them off for too long!

4. Cleaning Your Teeth and Aligners

At night, you need to take out your aligners to brush and floss your teeth. Then, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear soap to scrub them and remove any bacteria and food particles that have transferred from your teeth.

Rinse them in cold water to remove all the soap, and put them back on. The next morning, you don’t have to scrub the aligners. Just rinse them in water right after brushing your teeth. You should only clean the aligners during your nighttime routine.

5. Sleeping with Your Aligners

Invisalign must stay on while you sleep, which on the first night can feel strange. After your mouth gets used to the trays, you won’t have any problems falling asleep, however.

Try to relax, listen to white noise, and avoid taking out your aligners if you feel you can’t fall asleep with them.