Does Invisalign Hurt?

For anyone considering a discreet way to straighten their teeth, Invisalign is usually top of the list, and it's not hard to see why. But before committing, there's one question almost every patient asks first: does Invisalign hurt?

Here's everything you need to know about the discomfort you might feel and how to manage it, from Norwich's first and only Invisalign Diamond provider.

Does Invisalign hurt?

Most patients describe a dull ache or gentle pressure around their teeth rather than pain. That sensation is simply the aligner tray doing its job and applying steady pressure to shift your teeth into position. 

It's a sign the treatment is working - not a sign that something's wrong.

How much you feel varies from person to person. If your teeth are more severely misaligned, you may notice more discomfort as they move further. 

Occasionally, a new aligner that hasn't been trimmed quite right can catch on the gum or cheek, causing a sharp irritation rather than the usual pressure. Although this is rare, mention it to your dentist rather than just living with it.

Invisalign, does it hurt as much as people expect before they start? For most patients, it's a mild discomfort you adjust to within a few days rather than something that stops you going about your day.

How long does Invisalign hurt for?

Tenderness typically sets in within one to three days after fitting your first tray, then eases off. From there, switching to each new set of aligners can bring back some soreness, but it's usually milder than the last time as your teeth and gums get used to the routine.

A few things help that adjustment period pass more quickly:

• Wear your aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day. Taking them out more than necessary only resets the pressure each time you put them back in.
• Keep hydrated, since a dry mouth can make aligners feel more noticeable.
• Switch to a new tray at bedtime, so the worst of the pressure happens while you're asleep.

See our ‘How does Invisalign work?’ blog to find out more about how the treatment works.

Does Invisalign hurt more than braces?

Typically no, but it depends on the person. Traditional metal braces rely on brackets and wires that can rub against the inside of your cheeks and lips, and tightening appointments can cause soreness every few weeks.

Invisalign's smooth, custom-fitted trays don't have metal brackets that irritate and need to be tightened, so many patients find the discomfort milder and steadier.

But that doesn't mean Invisalign is entirely pain-free. You'll still feel pressure as your teeth adjust with each new aligner, just without the cut cheeks and broken wires.

How to ease Invisalign pain

A few simple habits to alleviate Invisalign discomfort during the first few days of each new tray:

• Eat soft foods for the first day or two after switching aligners while your teeth feel tender.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed, such as paracetamol. Check with your pharmacist or GP first if you're unsure what's suitable for you.
• Use a cold compress against your cheek to help reduce inflammation and take the edge off any soreness.
• Apply orthodontic wax over any spot where the aligner edge is catching your cheek or gum, rather than filing it down yourself.
• Wear new aligners mainly at night to start with, if your dentist agrees, so you're asleep through the worst of the adjustment.

When to speak to your dentist about Invisalign tooth pain

Mild pressure and tenderness are normal for Invisalign patients. But sharp pain or persistent pain that doesn't ease after a week, or pain in one tooth rather than spread across your bite, isn't.

Those can be signs that an aligner needs a small adjustment or that your teeth are moving slightly differently than planned. Either is easy to sort out with a quick check-up rather than persevering with any pain.

Enquire At Riverside Dental

If you're looking for Invisalign treatment in the Norfolk area and want assurance that you'll receive the best results and care, look no further than Riverside Dental - the first and only Invisalign diamond provider in Norwich.

This means we have considerable experience and knowledge in using Invisalign or traditional braces to straighten teeth! 

To book a consultation, call our helpful reception team on 0160 392 0313 or enquire online today, and we'll schedule your appointment.