If you are considering getting Invisalign, you may wonder, does
Invisalign hurt? Well, just like any other dental procedure, Invisalign is not
without side effects. And one of its downside is discomfort or pain. However,
you do not necessarily have to expect Invisalign pain throughout the treatment.
Is pain from Invisalign a common side effect?
As stated, a certain amount of pain is a common side effect of any
type of orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign. Since orthodontic
treatments involve the shifting and moving of the teeth into proper position,
it naturally implies that patients who undergo this type of procedure may
experience some amount of pain. But then again, not everyone who has Invisalign
aligners should experience any significant discomfort in the course of the
treatment. In fact, many patients only felt mild Invisalign pain during
their treatment.
When is pain from Invisalign experienced most?
Invisalign pain is usually felt at the beginning of the process and
during the first few days of wearing a new aligner. Patients mostly describe
the pain as a sense of tenderness or pressure. If you do experience some
discomfort, it may be related to the act of taking the aligners in and out of
your mouth.
How severe can Invisalign pain get?
Fortunately, although some people find it difficult to eat certain
foods or drink certain beverages given their tender teeth and gums, Invisalign
pain is rather manageable.
What can I do to diminish the discomfort?
- When a new
aligner arrives, switch it with your old one just before going to bed.
This will help you avoid certain amounts of severe Invisalign pain, not
because it does not occur when you sleep, but because you are sleeping so
you most likely will not feel the pain or deal with it when you wake up.
- If the
Invisalign pain is too much for you, consider using over-the-counter pain
relievers to control your discomfort. Ask your dentist what pain
medication you can take.
- Avoid chewy, crispy and crunchy foods when your teeth and gums are feeling sore. Instead, opt for soft foods, ones that you can chew easily to relieve pressure from your tender teeth.
- If the pain is
serious, press a cold compress against your lips and cheeks for around 10
minutes twice a day. Sucking on ice cubes once a day, if necessary, may
help relieve the tenderness, as well.
- Part of making
the Invisalign work is by keeping the trays on for at least 20 hours a
day. While doing so can be quite uncomfortable, you need to understand
that following the dentist’s recommendation is the key to getting good
results and minimizing side effects. If you keep your Invisalign as
directed, you are sure to have better oral health and a successful
treatment.
Does Invisalign hurt? Yes, it does. But just to a certain extent
and it is totally normal. Whenever you feel any Invisalign pain, simply follow
the mentioned tips, and you and your teeth will feel swell in no time.