Clear aligners are an effective solution for straightening crooked and crowded teeth. The most obvious reason people choose this type of treatment is that they are not noticeable, unlike traditional metal braces. Regardless of appearance, there is an adjustment period when you first start wearing aligners. We want to make you aware of common experiences that patients have when they first start wearing aligners.
How You Know Aligners Are Working
As with any type of braces, your teeth are being shifted into new positions which can cause mild discomfort or pain, especially when you start wearing a new set of aligner trays. This is totally normal, and should not be cause for worry. In fact, it’s a sign that the aligners are working to shift your teeth into the desired position. You are on your way to a beautiful and healthy smile.
Custom Fit
When you get your new aligners, there may be fit issues at first. This is normal. It just takes a little time for the aligners to adjust to your teeth. In fact, one of the benefits of aligners is that they customize to your teeth, which helps achieve the results you desire faster. Don’t stop wearing them — the longer you keep them in, the faster they will fit to your teeth.
Keeping Your Mouth Healthy
Aligners may cause dry mouth from time to time because the saliva is blocked from touching your teeth. This is not a permanent condition. Drink more water than normal to help with the dryness.
Take Your Time
When starting treatment, the aligners take some getting used to. When eating and talking, you might find yourself biting your inner cheek. Since your bite has changed, you will need some time to adjust to having a foreign object in your mouth. You might also find that your speech has changed a bit because your tongue is hitting the back of the aligner instead of your teeth when you talk. Don’t worry! Soon, you won’t even notice that you’re wearing aligners.
At The Best Braces, we help patients in Southfield, MI and the surrounding area with clear aligners so that they can have a beautiful and healthy smile. Please contact our office if you would like to schedule a consultation today.