Invisalign treatment has completely changed the world of orthodontics. As a discreet, comfortable alternative to braces Invisalign is the clear aligner system that has helped straighten millions of smiles worldwide. If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign but have questions about treatment, such as Does Invisalign hurt? We’re here to help put you at ease. Most patients find Invisalign is much more comfortable than braces – there’s no wires or brackets to worry about!
You might experience some discomfort throughout stages of your Invisalign treatment, particularly when changing to a new set of aligners or when you first get your aligners fitted. Find out more about Invisalign pain and how you can make the treatment more comfortable.
What Types of Dental Issues Can Invisalign Correct?
Patients with a number of oral health issues can benefit from Invisalign treatment. Here are some of the common issues that Invisalign can help fix:
- Teeth overcrowding in their mouth
- Gaps between their teeth
- An overbite
- An underbite or crossbite
Why Does Invisalign Hurt?
You might experience some discomfort or pressure for the few days that follow each aligner change. This is completely normal and a sign that the Invisalign aligners are moving your teeth into their straighter position. Any pain or discomfort that you experience will be noticeably less than what traditional metal braces can cause.
How Long Does Invisalign Pain Last?
Any pain you experience with Invisalign aligners will usually only last for a couple of days. Invisalign patients find that the most uncomfortable part of Invisalign treatment is within the first 1-2 days. Once you get used to your new Invisalign aligners you will hardly experience any discomfort, aside from the transition to new sets of aligners which will be less uncomfortable than your first set.
Best Tips to Relieve Invisalign Pain
Finding your Invisalign aligners uncomfortable? Follow these tips to help with the pain:
- Use Pain Relief. If you feel uncomfortable during your Invisalign treatment, try using pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease the soreness.
- Apply a Cold Compress. To relieve pain and inflammation to your jaw try applying an ice pack or cold compress.
- Eat Soft Foods. For the first couple of days after getting your new aligners stick to soft food like potatoes, soup, mousse to avoid further discomfort on your teeth. We recommend no hard or chewy foods for the first few days as well.
- Switch Aligners at Night. If you’re really struggling with the pain from your Invisalign aligners you could try switching your new sets of aligners before bed so you will be asleep during the most uncomfortable time.
When Should You Be Concerned About Invisalign Pain?
You can rest assured that some discomfort with Invisalign is completely normal. If you however experience intense pain that doesn’t resolve in a couple of days, have irritation in your mouth or gums or if your aligners aren’t fitting correctly it’s important to contact your Invisalign dentist or orthodontist so they can address any issues and ensure your treatment is continuing as desired.
FAQs for Invisalign Pain
1. Are braces more painful than Invisalign?
Most people find braces more painful than Invisalign treatment due to the brackets and wires that can rub against your gums. There are no brackets or wires with Invisalign making treatment with Invisalign aligners a more comfortable treatment option. Invisalign is removable and because you remove your aligners to eat you’re less likely to experience irritation from food getting stuck which is a possibility with braces.
2. Are my teeth supposed to hurt with Invisalign?
It’s not uncommon to feel some mild discomfort or pain during your Invisalign treatment. You might notice discomfort when you change to a new set of aligners or when your very first Invisalign aligners are fitted. You can rest assured that this is completely normal and is part of the Invisalign treatment process. If you have any concerns about the pain you experience with your Invisalign aligners, get in touch with your Invisalign dentist for assistance.
3. Can Invisalign cause jaw pain?
Some Invisalign patients do experience jaw discomfort at the beginning of their Invisalign treatment, this is temporary and will reduce when your teeth adjust to your Invisalign aligners. If you are concerned about any jaw pain you experience we recommend contacting your Invisalign dentist.
4. Does Invisalign always hurt?
Not all patients experience pain with Invisalign. It’s most common to feel some discomfort when you get your first aligners or when you switch to a new set. Once your teeth adjust to the treatment the pain will subside – this is normally within a few days.
5. Does Invisalign get less painful?
Yes, as your treatment progresses, the discomfort associated with Invisalign tends to decrease. As your teeth get used to the feel of your aligners you will feel more comfortable.
6. Is it bad to bite down on Invisalign?
You need to take extra care with your Invisalign aligners, so you don’t cause any damage to them. We don’t recommend biting down on your aligners. Always remove your Invisalign aligners before you eat.
Final Summary
Invisalign is a great option for people wanting to straighten their smile discreetly. Their virtually invisible, clear aligner system is a comfortable alternative to traditional braces and has helped straighten millions of smiles worldwide. Invisalign can cause minor discomfort in the early stage of treatment but fortunately it resolves within a couple of days. If you’re worried about the discomfort you’re experiencing with Invisalign we recommend chatting to your Invisalign dentist so they can help.
Keen to get started on your Invisalign journey? We’re thrilled to help you transform your smile with Invisalign. If you’re ready to start your Invisalign journey book a consultation with Maven Dental today!