As you start your Invisalign treatment, you may be excited about getting to your results. It’ll take time to reach them, so you’ll have to develop an aligner routine in the meantime. One thing you’ll need to do is to take them out before you eat. However, doing so can be tricky, and you may struggle initially. Many people have experienced this difficulty, so here are four easy tips to make removing your trays a more comfortable experience.
Warm Up Your Mouth
To get relief from your Invisalign, you can drink cold water to soothe your mouth. While it can help you feel better, your aligners become less flexible because of it. You should heat your mouth by waiting just a bit or by drinking lukewarm water. Try removing them afterward, and you might have success this time around.
Start with Your Back Teeth
If you are pulling from your front teeth, then try changing tactics and start with your molars. Wash your hands and use your fingertips to shimmy one end of your trays loose. Repeat it on the other side, and you may have luck. Do it again for your other arch, and you can start to dig into your meals.
Use a Glove or a Towel
While you are trying to do some of the tips, you may notice how your aligners are a bit slippery when they are wet. To give you more traction and friction, you can try using a glove or towel to soak up extra moisture. That way, you can get a good grip while you try to remove your Invisalign.
Consider an Aligner Hook
You might find success with the above, but you may still have trouble doing it consistently and comfortably. A helpful tool that you can use is an aligner hook. These are plastic hooks that have a ring at the end where you put your finger in. Position the tip at the back of your trays and gently pull away from your teeth. Start on one side, and move over to the next. Just be sure not to do it too hard; that way, you don’t accidentally hurt yourself.
Hopefully, you can remove your Invisalign with ease after trying out these methods. Find one that works for you and stick to it throughout your orthodontic journey. It will help you have a smoother experience and let you dig into your food without worry.
About the Practice
At Salt Run Family Dentistry, you benefit from the skilled leadership of Dr. Mickey Leth and Dr. Nicole Dunn. We are dedicated to helping the St. Augustine community get the healthier bites they deserve with Invisalign. By sticking with you throughout your treatment, you can know what to expect and how to avoid delays. If you want some more tips navigating life with your trays, schedule an appointment or call our office at (904) 824-3540.