One of the chief complaints about traditional braces is that in addition to being difficult to keep clean, they are also notoriously uncomfortable. Thankfully, CandidPro clear aligners can straighten your teeth without the hassle of wires and brackets, and a lot more comfortably, too. However, while they may be much more discreet and easy to care for, they can sometimes cause some minor discomfort, especially when it’s time to advance to a new set. Here are six easy ways you can make your mouth feel better when upgrading your CandidPro aligners, so you can have a beautiful, straight, pain-free smile without all the downsides of traditional braces!
Take an OTC Pain Reliever
Although your mouth may experience some initial soreness after switching to a new set of CandidPro aligners, the good news is most of it should be mild enough to manage with over-the-counter pain medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Better still, it should only last a day or two even if you do nothing. If you have any questions or concerns about dosing information, speak to your physician or dentist for guidance.
Use Orthodontic Wax
While many people use orthodontic wax to cushion wires and brackets poking their soft tissue during treatment with traditional braces, it can also benefit patients with CandidPro clear aligners that may have irritating edges. That being said, for more permanent relief, if you ever find your trays are poking or scratching your gums, tongue, or cheeks, talk to your dentist about trimming the edges – but never attempt to do this yourself!
Apply A Cold Compress
Cold compresses are a fast, easy way to ease swelling and discomfort caused by advancing to a new set of CandidPro aligners. Just hold it directly over the sore area (outside the mouth) for about 10 – 15 minutes as needed, and repeat as often as you’d like.
Stick to Soft Foods
With CandidPro, you’ll need to remove your trays to brush and floss your teeth, and to eat or drink anything besides water. Because of this, there are no dietary restrictions, and you can basically enjoy any foods you want. However, if your teeth are feeling temporarily sore, try switching to a soft diet for a few days. Foods such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, soup, and yogurt are all filling and can be consumed without making mouth discomfort worse.
Gradually Increase Your Wear Time
For best results, it is important to wear your CandidPro aligners at least 22 hours a day. However, if it’s too painful to commit to a full day at first, you can start off smaller and gradually increase your wear time. Be aware, though, that the longer you take to achieve the full 22 hours, the longer your treatment will take, so be sure to discuss this with your dentist and make a plan to get (and stay) on track as soon as possible!
Take Care of Your Trays
Dirty or damaged trays can increase discomfort in your teeth, so be sure to keep them clean and wear them as directed by your dentist. Never eat while wearing your trays and clean your teeth and gums well before putting them back on. Rinse them well each time they come out, and don’t forget to clean the trays themselves at least once a day.
Remember, although they are much more comfortable and discreet than traditional braces, many patients still wonder “Does CandidPro hurt?” The good news is that with these tips in mind they don’t have to! To learn more about this treatment, and to see if it’s right for your smile, schedule a consultation for CandidPro clear aligners with your dentist today!
About Our Practice
At SoHay Dental, we want to help give you a beautiful, perfectly aligned smile without the hassle or discomfort of traditional braces. That’s why we’re pleased to offer CandidPro clear aligners. These discreet, comfortable trays can straighten your teeth in a fraction of the time of wires and brackets, all with no dietary restrictions. To learn more about CandidPro and to see if this solution is right for you, schedule a consultation today by visiting our website or calling 510-314-8426.