Starting clear aligner treatment is an exciting step toward a straighter smile, but it’s normal to experience some discomfort when you switch to a new set of aligners. This soreness is usually a sign that the aligners are working as intended, gently moving your teeth into better alignment. The good news is that this discomfort is temporary and manageable. Here are 4 practical tips to help ease new aligner discomfort and keep your treatment on track.
1. Switch to New Aligners at Night
One of the simplest ways to reduce discomfort is to change to a new set of aligners before going to bed. This allows your teeth to begin adjusting while you sleep, so you may notice less soreness during waking hours. Since the first 24 hours with a new aligner tend to be the most uncomfortable, sleeping through part of that adjustment period can make the transition feel much easier.
2. Use Cold Therapy for Relief
Cold can help soothe inflammation and numb mild pain caused by tooth movement. Drinking cold water or using a cold compress on the outside of your jaw for short periods can help reduce soreness. Some patients also find relief by briefly rinsing with cool water. Avoid chewing on ice, as this can damage your teeth and aligners. Cold therapy is most effective during the first day or two of wearing a new tray.
3. Stick to Soft Foods When Needed
New aligners can make chewing feel uncomfortable, especially right after a tray change. Choosing softer foods—such as yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, soups, or mashed vegetables—can reduce pressure on sensitive teeth. As discomfort fades, you can gradually return to your normal diet. Avoid very hard or crunchy foods during the first couple of days with a new aligner to prevent unnecessary pain.
4. Wear Your Aligners as Directed
It may be tempting to remove your aligners when they feel uncomfortable but wearing them consistently is key to reducing pain. Removing aligners too often allows teeth to shift back slightly, making discomfort worse when you put them back in. Following your dentist’s or orthodontist’s recommended wear schedule—typically 20 to 22 hours per day—helps teeth move steadily and predictably, which actually minimizes soreness over time.
When Discomfort is Normal—and When It’s Not
Mild to moderate soreness during the first few days of a new aligner is normal. However, sharp pain, sores that don’t heal, or aligners that don’t fit properly should be addressed by your dental provider. They can check for rough edges, fit issues, or treatment adjustments.
New aligner discomfort is a common and temporary part of treatment. By switching aligners at night, using cold therapy, choosing soft foods, and wearing your trays consistently, you can significantly ease soreness and stay comfortable.
About the Author
Dr. Payam Ishani is a graduate of the University of California, San Francisco School of Dentistry. This was followed by completing specialty training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, where he also earned a master’s in biology. Today, Dr. Ishani is a certified Invisalign provider and can offer BOTOX treatment. He’s also an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists. If you’d like a straighter, healthier smile, we can help with Invisalign treatment. Schedule an appointment online or call our Oklahoma City office at (405) 805-0997.