If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign, you might be concerned about how painful the process could be. Despite Invisalign’s reputation as a pain-free treatment, some patients may still feel discomfort.
If you’re using Invisalign and experiencing pain or discomfort, here are some tips for dealing with it.
Cure with Invisalign
Pressure exerted gradually during Invisalign treatment gradually moves teeth into place, creating a straighter smile.
The clear aligners used in Invisalign therapy are virtually invisible when compared to metal braces since they sit on top of the teeth.
Some people can feel a little uncomfortable under that much pressure. Invisalign’s ability to gently exert force while remaining virtually invisible is a big reason why so many people who want straighter teeth choose it.
Braces vs. Invisalign
Those who have used Invisalign report less pain than they did with their “fixed appliances,” or conventional braces.
With Invisalign, you can straighten your teeth without the need of unsightly metal wires and brackets. These trays are not only more discreet than metal ones, but they also claim to be more pleasant to wear.
In addition, some patients may require pain medication during the first week of wearing fixed braces.
Regardless, familiarity with either type of dental tool can be achieved.
An analysis of studies published in 2020 found that after three months of wearing Invisalign, patients reported significantly less discomfort.
The Invisalign system will not take as long to complete as traditional metal braces, although the first few weeks of wearing the new trays may be uncomfortable. Invisalign treatment can be completed in 12-18 months, while traditional metal braces often need to be worn for three years.
In addition, many people dislike wearing traditional metal and wire braces because of the sharp edges and projecting portions. When rubbed against, they can also be painful to the gums.
Pain and Invisalign
Invisalign’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years as more and more people seek out an alternative to metal braces.
Many people considering Invisalign have worried about the potential for discomfort. However, you shouldn’t be worried.
With Invisalign, your teeth can be moved into place gradually and comfortably. As teeth shift naturally throughout the active alignment procedure, some patients may experience heightened sensitivity.
However, Invisalign’s particular features, such custom-made aligners and attachments for sensitive teeth, are intended to lessen this pain. Using Invisalign shouldn’t be any more painful or uncomfortable than wearing regular braces.
How long have you been in pain?
Putting in a new set of Invisalign aligners can be a little painful for some patients. As the teeth adjust to their new shape, the discomfort may linger for a few weeks.
First-week discomfort
Initial discomfort with Invisalign is common, but it normally subsides quickly. You may rest comfortable that you will rapidly adjust to your invisible aligners and be on your way to straighten teeth, as a 2005 study found that 83% of those who wore them got used to them within the first seven days.
Sensitivity scale
Invisible aligner wearers typically report only minor, short-lived discomfort. More than a third (35%) of respondents reported feeling no pain at all, while 54% reported feeling just mild discomfort.
According to a recent survey, nearly half of all Invisalign patients experience some level of discomfort when chewing.
Overall, data show that Invisalign typically results in minor, temporary discomfort, however not everyone feels the same way. However, you may have increased pain when wearing dental aligners if you suffer from any of the following:
- Overall decreased pain tolerance
- Teeth sensitivity
- Gingivitis and hypersensitive gums
Only one tooth hurts.
If you experience brief pain in just one tooth, it may be a sign that your aligners are doing their job and moving your teeth into the correct position.
You may feel some sensitivity in your teeth when you go from one tray to the next, but this should go away within a few days.
However, any discomfort is typically minimal and short-lived. Wearers of Invisalign should also be aware that slight tooth movement may persist for up to six weeks after a fresh set of aligners has been inserted.
How can I lessen the discomfort?
Pain from invisalign treatment can be difficult to manage, but there are ways to lessen its impact.
Non-prescription pain relievers
In many cases, the first line of defence against mild aches and pains is over-the-counter medication.
Wrap in ice
A cold compress placed over the mouth might also help minimize swelling.
Dentist’s Wax
Dental wax can be used to smooth over rough braces edges that are irritating the gums.
Make some dietary adjustments.
If you have braces, you may want to modify the way you eat by cutting food into smaller pieces and avoiding chewing directly on hard items like apples and carrots.
Never put your aligners in hot water to clean them.
Aligners are easily damaged by hot water and may no longer fit properly. If you want your device to fit perfectly every time, skip the hot water and use lukewarm or cold water instead.
Stay away from crunchy or firm meals.
It is strongly suggested that you transition to a soft food diet in order to alleviate the pain in your teeth. This recommendation is especially relevant throughout the process of switching between alignment tools.
Hold on to your trays
It is also important to minimize inflammation by consistently using your aligner trays or retainers.
