Tips for Your First Week with Clear Dental Aligners

Clear dental aligners are often much easier to deal with than metal braces. They don't catch on your cheeks, and you don't have to go back to the dentist to have them tightened periodically. However, there can still be a bit of an adaptation period when you first get the clear aligners. Here are some tips that will help you adapt during that first week.

Always bring your case with you. 

One of the awesome things about clear aligners is the fact that you remove them to eat. However, you do have to remember to put them back in after eating, which can be hard when you're not used to having aligners yet. If you always bring your aligner case with you, then you will have a place to stick your aligners when you remove them. You can stick the case in your pocket or bag. If you do forget to pop the aligners back in right after a meal, you'll soon discover them, inside their case, in your pocket or bag — and you can put them back in then. This approach helps keep you from accidentally throwing your aligners away with your food wrapper or leaving them on a table at a restaurant. 

Clean your aligners when you brush your teeth.

You should be cleaning your aligners daily. Some people brush them with a toothbrush and toothpaste, and others like to rinse them in an antibacterial rinse. Whichever approach you choose, get in the habit of cleaning the aligners whenever you brush your teeth (this way, you are less likely to forget). Plus, when you re-introduce the clean aligners to your clean teeth, they won't expose your teeth to germs that could cause cavities.

Take ibuprofen as needed.

The aligners can cause some jaw discomfort and aching as they move your teeth. This tends to be the worst during the first week or two that you wear the aligners. Unless there is a medical reason why you can't take ibuprofen, taking a dose now and then when your jaw is aching can be helpful. Once you're adapted to the aligners, you'll generally find you don't need it anymore. For now, keep it on-hand whether you're in or out of your house.

Your first week with clear dental aligners should go smoothly if you follow the tips above. And once this week is over, it should be smooth sailing.

For additional advice, don't hesitate to turn to a general dental care service such as Smile Solutions LLC.