Wondering if straightening your smile comes with a side of pain? Many people ask this before starting their Invisalign treatment.
Invisalign may cause some discomfort, but it’s usually mild and eases within the first week as your mouth adjusts to each new set of aligners. Many patients describe it as gentle pressure rather than pain, a sign that the aligners are working to move your teeth into place.
Because every smile is different, your experience may vary — factors like tooth sensitivity, gum health, and pain tolerance can play a role. If you ever feel discomfort that affects your daily routine, your dentist can recommend simple ways to help.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that helps straighten teeth and correct issues such as crowding or bite problems. It uses a series of clear, custom-made aligners to gently guide your teeth into position.
These aligners offer a discreet, convenient alternative to traditional braces. They’re virtually invisible and can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing.
For desired results, the aligners should be worn 20 to 22 hours a day. Every 1 to 2 weeks, you’ll switch to a new set, gradually moving your teeth into place. Most patients visit their dentist every 6 to 8 weeks to check progress and make any needed adjustments.
What to Expect with Invisalign
As your bite shifts, you may feel mild irritation or discomfort when adjusting to a new set of aligners. This is a normal part of the process and usually eases with time, as your mouth adapts.
Your experience can depend on factors such as:
- Tooth sensitivity
- Your personal pain tolerance
- The health of your gums and teeth
In one study of 54 patients, 83% adjusted to their aligners within a week, and 35% reported no pain. About 54% experienced mild discomfort, and 44% found chewing difficult at first. A more recent study found that patients with traditional braces reported more discomfort than Invisalign wearers during the first week of treatment.
Because Invisalign is made from a patented thermoplastic material, it doesn’t have metal brackets or wires that can scratch the inside of your mouth — a common source of irritation with traditional braces.
Treating Invisalign Discomfort
Mild discomfort is common when starting a new set of Invisalign aligners, but there are ways to ease the feeling:
- Dental wax: Applying wax to the top edges of your aligners can help reduce any gum irritation.
- Eating habits: If one side of your mouth feels sore, try chewing on the opposite side until it improves.
- Over-the-counter medication: Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or aspirin may help relieve discomfort in the first few days. Always check with your doctor before taking medication, especially if you have health conditions or take other prescriptions.
- Consistent wear: Wearing your aligners as recommended helps your mouth adjust more quickly. Taking them out too often can make it harder to get used to them again.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Mild soreness in the teeth, jaws, or tongue is expected during the first week of a new set of aligners. However, contact your dentist promptly if you notice:
- Pain that interferes with daily activities
- Bleeding from the teeth or gums
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Pain while eating, drinking, or swallowing
- Swelling in the mouth or face
How Long Does Invisalign Take?
Treatment time varies from person to person. Invisalign reports that some patients see results in as little as 6 months. Your dentist can give you a more accurate estimate based on:
- The severity of your dental misalignment
- Your commitment to wearing aligners as directed
Once treatment is complete, your dentist or orthodontist will discuss using retainers to help maintain your results.
Caring for Your Invisalign Aligners
Keeping your aligners clean and in good condition is straightforward:
- Remove them when eating or drinking anything other than water.
- Brush your teeth thoroughly before reinserting aligners to avoid trapped food particles.
- Brush and rinse aligners before placing them back in — avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic.
- Ask your dentist about Invisalign’s cleaning products and where to purchase them.
- If your aligners break, contact your dentist for a replacement.
Your dentist will provide detailed care instructions when you receive your aligners.
Support for Your Invisalign Journey
If you’re experiencing issues with your Invisalign aligners — whether it’s discomfort, a damaged tray, or trouble adjusting — don’t wait to get help. The sooner we address the concern, the smoother your treatment will be, helping you stay on track toward your desired results.
At Grand West Dental, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our team can adjust your treatment plan, offer tips for relief, and help your aligners fit comfortably and effectively. Connect with us today to book an appointment and keep your smile bright and beautiful. Your comfort and confidence are always our priority.
