If you are just starting your Invisalign treatment, then you might be excited about beginning your journey to a straighter smile. That said, adjusting to them might be tough at first, but taking care of them will soon become second nature. One thing that a few people might struggle with at first is removing their trays. To help make this part a bit easier, here are four tips to try out.
Warm Your Mouth Up
Invisalign can make your mouth sore, but a good way to get relief is by drinking a cold glass of water. That said, this makes your aligners less flexible, so if you try removing them right after, it may be tougher than normal. Simply wait a bit for your mouth to heat up or drink lukewarm water. You should hopefully have better luck afterward.
Start Pulling from Your Back Teeth
When you are removing your trays, you should also try to do it from the back first. Loosening it from your molars can be easier compared to the front. You can use your fingers and shimmy it off. Do so on both sides, and you may be able to pop them off easier.
Use a Towel or Glove
The plastic of your aligners can be slippery, so consider using a towel or glove to give you a better grip. The cloth can also soak up any extra moisture, so you can more easily grab the edge and remove it. That way, you can get to brushing your smile or digging into your food.
Get an Aligner Hook
With all that said, you might still have trouble getting your Invisalign off consistently and with ease. If so, then you can head to your local department store and look for an aligner hook. These are plastic hooks with a ring at the end. You put your finger in it and position the tip at the back of your tray. Gently pull away, and you should have some luck! Just be sure you don’t do it too hard, as you risk accidentally hurting yourself if so.
Hopefully, one of the tips above works for you. It might even be a good idea to try a mix of them. Once you find a comfortable method, stick to it throughout your treatment; that way, you have a smoother experience with your trays.
About the Practice
Want more tips about adjusting to life with Invisalign? Here at Michelsen Dental, we have a compassionate team of dentists who look after you every step of this orthodontic treatment. By giving you personalized advice and having consistent checkups, you can feel confident knowing you’ll get your straighter smile in no time. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call our office at (714) 538-1178.
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