Invisalign braces are a helpful way to straighten your teeth because they don't require that you have braces and wires permanently attached to your teeth for years. However, the trays can take some getting used to, especially if you have a sensitive mouth. Use these strategies to adjust to the Invisalign trays, both when you first start treatment and when you change trays.
Start Speaking -- a Lot
One of the first side effects people notice with Invisalign is that they may end up speaking with a lisp. The trays are like retainers in that they add an additional layer of material, changing how your articulators -- your tongue, teeth, and lips -- interact with each other to form sounds. Start speaking as soon as you can. Even if you're alone, take a book and read it out loud. The more practice you get with speaking with the trays in, the faster you'll get past any lisp the trays might give you.
Make a Game of the Change in Eating Habits
Your eating habits are going to change quickly. Because the trays need to be in most of the time, you'll have to eat more quickly and remember to brush and floss your teeth after each meal or snack. Identify how your diet will have to change while you have the trays, and make implementing each change a challenge or game.
Get Supplies for Assistance With Attachments Now
If you have to have attachments placed on your teeth -- those tiny grips that help hold the trays -- you might need assistance getting the trays out. Talk to the orthodontist about ways to remove the trays from those attachments and get any supplies you might need up front. If there are special picks, for example, that others have found helpful, get a supply of those now. Better to have them and not need them than the other way around.
Have Wax Ready
Sometimes the edges of the trays can irritate sensitive gums. Your orthodontist can modify the trays, but until you can get in to the office, you have to have some way to protect your gums. Look for wax (your orthodontist might be able to give you a small supply) that you place on the parts of the trays that are causing an issue. Place a spot of wax there, and you should find the trays become more comfortable.
Invisalign has been used by many, many people over the years, so if you have any adjustment questions, chances are they can be remedied easily. Your orthodontist can give you more information.
