Invisalign is a great way to straighten your teeth and achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. While it comes with a long list of benefits, it’s not perfect. If you undergo Invisalign treatment, you may face chapped lips. This is probably because saliva is getting stuck in your aligners and unable to lubricate your lips as it should.

The good news is this issue can be resolved pretty easily. All you have to do is apply chapstick and drink plenty of water throughout the day. If these tips don’t help and your chapped lips are causing a great deal of discomfort, be sure to inform your orthodontist.

In addition to keeping your lips moist and staying hydrated, here are some ways you can make the most out of your treatment.

Wear Your Aligners

It may seem obvious but wearing your aligners is the most important thing you can do. While you can remove them every time you eat, drink, brush, and floss, keeping them out of your mouth for too long can delay your treatment. As long as you wear your aligners for at least 22 hours per day, your teeth will slowly but surely shift into their optimal position. It’s also important to follow the schedule your orthodontist provides you with and change your aligners on time. In most cases, this will be every two weeks or so.

Alleviate Discomfort

When you first wear a new set of aligners, you’ll probably notice some discomfort. This is because your teeth aren’t used to plastic in your mouth. Fortunately, the discomfort should subside in a few days as your teeth adjust to the aligners.

In the meantime, however, you can alleviate it with over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or Ibuprofen. You may also apply a cold compress or frozen bag of veggies to the outside of your cheek to reduce soreness. Another helpful tip is to switch aligners at night, right before bed so your teeth can get used to them while you’re sleeping. Also, if you notice any roughness on the edge, let your orthodontist know so they can smooth it out.

Care for Your Teeth

While it’s always important to brush and floss your teeth, it’s particularly vital when you’re undergoing Invisalign. Take your aligners out to brush your teeth twice a day and floss once daily. Also, visit your dentist every six months for routine exams and cleanings. Although your aligners can straighten your teeth, it’s your job to keep them healthy.

Keep Your Aligners in Good Shape

It’s also crucial to care for your aligners. After all, they won’t be able to perform optimally if they aren’t in optimal condition. Clean your aligners regularly with a mixture of warm water and antibacterial soap. Avoid toothpaste as it can scratch the plastic. Keep them in a case when you’re not wearing them so you don’t lose them or throw them away accidentally.

Contact Sims Orthodontics Today

If you have further questions about Invisalign or would like to schedule an appointment at our Pensacola office, don’t hesitate to call us at 850-477-7715. We look forward to hearing from you!