If you were like most patients preparing for clear aligner treatment, there’s a good chance you asked your orthodontist, “Does Invisalign hurt?” Although different than metal braces, these customized trays can still cause some initial discomfort. If you recently received your aligners and are wondering what you can do to create a more enjoyable experience, keep reading.
What Causes Invisalign Discomfort?
There are many distinct differences between Invisalign and traditional braces, including their look, function, and treatment timeframe. However, one thing is similar – they can both cause some level of discomfort.
While the regular braces rely on wire tightening to shift teeth, Invisalign’s clear aligners are crafted based on each new stage of treatment. This means that continuous pressure is placed on teeth so they will move in the right direction.
When starting with your first set of aligners, you can expect there to be some soreness, as the act of moving teeth naturally causes discomfort. You might also experience this same feeling when switching to a new set every few weeks.
How to Minimize Soreness & Start Enjoying Life with Invisalign
Most patients who wear Invisalign remark that treatment is much less bothersome than traditional braces, especially since there are no protruding brackets and wires to rub against soft oral tissues. When minor aching or discomfort arises, there are ways you can alleviate the problem, such as:
- Wearing your aligners 20-22 hours a day. While it might seem counterintuitive to keep wearing your trays when they don’t feel good, this is the most effective way to overcome soreness and ensure you stay on track.
- Drink cold water, as this helps soothe your mouth, especially your jaw.
- Use orthodontic wax to cover any sharp edges of your aligners that may be rubbing against your lips, gums, tongue, or cheeks.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to ease discomfort. Just be sure to take it as directed.
- Eat soft foods initially so that you avoid placing additional pressure on your teeth. Also, be sure to remove your trays when preparing to eat or drink.
- Take care of your aligners by keeping them clean. This reduces bacterial accumulation that can often cause gum irritation and tenderness. Also, store them in a protective case when you are not wearing them. If they become damaged, this can cause them to fit poorly.
Don’t let the discomfort of your new aligners cause you to deviate from your treatment timeline. By using these recommended methods, you can address the problem and remain on your way to a beautiful, straighter set of teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Everson is a board-certified orthodontist with more than 15 years of experience helping patients enjoy life with a straighter smile. Providing different methods of treatment, he is pleased to make Invisalign accessible to those who desire a more subtle solution. However, if tenderness and achy smiles become an issue, he can recommend helpful ways to combat discomfort and stay on track. Contact us via our website or call (404) 697-7497 if you need further assistance with Invisalign.