Are Your Spark Aligners Hurting? Here is the Fast Way to Relieve the Pain and Aches!

Bearing in mind that you are now a part of the Spark Clear Aligner Treatment journey, it might start out as a very exhilarating venture, but finally, it is a step towards that confident smile! Still, if you feel pain or soreness while using the aligners, you are not alone. Slight discomfort and tenderness are to be expected, particularly within the first several days of wearing a new pair. Regardless, this discomfort can be handled and minimized with the help of proven approaches.

In this blog, we will know everything you should know about the inconvenience of Spark aligners and how to relieve it in the shortest possible time.

Why do Spark Aligners Hurt?

Spark aligners are also individually designed to slowly change your teeth into their perfect locations. During this movement, you apply pressure on your teeth, gums, and occasionally your jaw. 

This pressure has the effect of:

• Soreness in the teeth and gums
• Discomfort in changing to a different set of aligners
• Tongue, cheek, or lip irritation
• Occasionally, jaw tenderness or mild headaches, but this is less common.

Inserting a new aligner tray tends to cause pain in the initial period of 24-48 hours, though this pain eventually disappears as your mouth adapts.

How Long Does the Discomfort last?

To the majority of patients, such discomfort is temporary in Spark Clear Aligner Treatment. Here is a general timeline:

• Days 1-3: In the first few days, you may experience mild to moderate soreness
• Day 4-7 - The pain usually reduces significantly.
• After 1 week, most patients feel little to no discomfort as the mouth adjusts.
• Tray changes: Might feel discomfort every 1-2 weeks when changing trays

The trick is consistency; the more you wear your aligners, that is, 20-22 hours daily, the quicker your teeth are adjusted.

The Quick Way to Reduce Spark Aligner Discomfort

Although not avoidable, it does not mean you have to endure some soreness without relief. To alleviate the situation within a short period of time, you should use the following easy ways:

1. Take action with Orthodontic Wax

If your aligners irritate the cheeks or the tongue, smear orthodontic wax on the edges. It builds a gentle shield that prevents irritation of your mouth.

2. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Killers

If you feel there is pain and inflammation, ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used as an instant solution. Make it a point to consider dosage guidelines and contact your physician in case you have any medical concerns. Be cautious about medications!

3. Cold Compresses

Cover the outside of your sore area with a cold compress or an ice pack. Cold assists in decreasing the inflammation and dulling pain.

4. Warm Saltwater Rinse

Sore gums can be rinsed with salt water, which prevents infection in case of some slight irritation. Take half a teaspoon of salt and add it to a glass of warm water, and swish for 30 seconds.

5. Use Chewies

Chewies are soft, spongy cushions made of medical-grade material that help seat your aligners properly.. Chewing them may help relieve pain due to better suits and higher pressure.

6. Swap Aligners at Bedtime

Begin new trays overnight so you will sleep off the first few days of adjustment. Most of the pain would have already reached the highest stage by the time you get up.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing abnormal in feeling at least a little soreness during Spark Clear Aligner treatment, particularly at the beginning. If pain is severe or lasts longer than a week, consult your orthodontist. However, under proper care, Discomfort can often be eased within a short time using simple remedies, though full adjustment may take a few days. Also, remember it is one step closer to the great big smile you have always wanted because each step of pressure is one step closer.

In the case of indecision, it is best to consult with your orthodontist to provide an individual consultation. Your overall dental health and comfort are worth all of it!