Does Invisalign Hurt?

Are you thinking of getting Invisalign treatment but wondering does Invisalign hurt? Like other orthodontic therapy, Invisalign can cause discomfort and agony. But don’t be concerned; this is very normal.
Invisalign is a set of transparent aligner trays used in an orthodontic procedure that straightens your teeth. Invisalign aligners, unlike traditional braces, are removable and nearly unnoticeable.
This blog post is here to make you aware of Invisalign pain and answer questions such as how long Invisalign hurts when it stops paining and why the pain occurs. So, keep reading!

Why Does Invisalign Hurt?

The pressure the aligners place on your teeth to shift them into the proper position is generally the source of Invisalign pain. The pain indicates that your aligners are operating properly and your teeth are progressively moving. Some circumstances, however, may worsen the discomfort, such as:

• Tight or ineffective aligners
• Brand-new aligners
• Abnormal tooth movement
• Excessive biting or chewing

4 Types of Invisalign Pain

Invisalign aligners progressively straighten your teeth. As a result, they may cause minor and brief discomfort in the following ways:

1. Pain in the First Week
   Many patients ask – “does Invisalign hurt the first day?” Well, not only the first day but sometime they may take the first week to settle. Yes! The first week of wearing a new pair of aligners is frequently the most painful. This is due to your teeth adapting to the pressure and the aligners remaining tight. After a few days, the soreness should go away.
2. Pain in One Tooth Only
   Invisalign discomfort can sometimes be limited to a single tooth. This might suggest that the aligner is not correctly fitting or that the tooth is shifting more than it should. Consult with your orthodontist to evaluate the condition.
3. Jaw Pain
   Invisalign pain can also affect your jaw muscles and joints. This is because the aligners can change your bite and temporarily alter your jaw functions. So, when does Invisalign stop hurting? Don’t worry. The pain should subside after a few days as your jaw adjusts to the new position.
4. Pain in Tongue
   The aligners may brush on your tongue, causing minor scratches or bruises, leading to pain and discomfort. Dental wax can help to relieve discomfort. More strategies to get rid of Invisalign pain are discussed in the next section.

6 Proven Remedies & Treatments to Get Relief From Invisalign Pain

Does your Invisalign hurt? There are several ways to alleviate the pain caused by Invisalign. Six of the most effective ones are mentioned here!

1. Apply Dental Wax
   Dental wax is a soft, malleable substance that you may use to soothe irritation and pain caused by your aligners. It works as a cushion between your teeth, gums, and aligners, reducing pain, friction, and sensitivity.
2. Use Over-the-counter Medications
   Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can assist with Invisalign pain. However, before taking any drug, always speak with your doctor.
3. Modify Your Eating Habits
   Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods since they might put pressure on your aligners and create pain. Instead, choose soft meals that are chopped into little pieces, such as boiled veggies, porridge, smoothies, soups, soft-boiled eggs, etc.
4. Apply a Cold Compress
   Applying a cool compress to your cheeks might help to relieve inflammation and soreness. Apply a gel ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel to your cheeks for 10-15 minutes at a time.
5. Put on New Aligners Before Boing to Bed
   If you get a new set of aligners, attempt to swap them before going to bed. This allows your teeth to adapt as you sleep, reducing discomfort during the day.
6. Call Your Orthodontist for Assistance
   Invisalign should stop hurting after a few days or weeks. However, if you keep experiencing any of the following conditions for an extended duration, contact your orthodontist for help:

   -Pain while eating food

   -Facial swelling

   -Bleeding in your teeth and gums

   -Hot and cold sensitivity

Do you want to know more about Invisalign, or are you troubled due to the Invisalign pain? Don’t hesitate to call us at Putnum Orthodontics. We have a team of distinguished and experienced orthodontists in Carmel Hamlet and Briarcliff Manor who can help you learn more about Invisalign and resolve all your related concerns.
Book a Free Consultation Now!