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How Long Will My Teeth Be Sore With Invisalign?
Teeth soreness from Invisalign typically lasts between 3 to 7 days after starting a new set of aligners. This discomfort is a normal part of the treatment process, indicating that the aligners are working to move your teeth into the correct positions.
Why Can Invisalign Cause Sore Teeth?
Invisalign aligners work by applying pressure on your teeth to shift them gradually. This pressure triggers the soreness as your teeth begin to move and adjust.
The aligners are designed to fit carefully over your teeth, and each new set you wear is slightly adjusted to continue the straightening process. The soreness usually begins within the first few hours of wearing a new aligner and is most noticeable during the first couple of days.
The discomfort you feel is a sign that the aligners are doing their job. When straightening crooked teeth with Invisalign, your teeth are shifting into new positions which naturally causes some tenderness.
How Bad Is the Pain From Invisalign?
Most people report that the pain from Invisalign is mild to moderate. It has been found that approximately 54% of Invisalign patients described their pain as mild, while only a small percentage reported severe discomfort.
The level of pain varies depending on the person, their pain tolerance and the extent of teeth movement required. The soreness typically feels like a dull ache or tenderness when you apply pressure to your teeth, such as when chewing food.
For most patients, this discomfort subsides as they get used to each new aligner. It is common to experience the most significant discomfort during the first 24 to 48 hours of wearing a new set of aligners.
What Are Some Ways To Alleviate Invisalign Soreness?
There are several effective ways to alleviate the soreness associated with Invisalign. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help reduce the discomfort during the initial days of wearing a new aligner. Additionally, switching to a new set of aligners at night can help you sleep through the initial soreness.
Another helpful method is to use cold compresses on the outside of your cheeks to reduce inflammation and numb the area temporarily. Some patients find relief by using orthodontic wax on the edges of the aligners if they feel sharp or cause irritation to the gums.
Drinking cold water can help to soothe sore teeth. We also recommend avoiding hard or crunchy foods in the first few days to minimise discomfort whilst eating.
Will Invisalign Soreness Occur Every Time I Change Aligners?
Yes, it is possible to experience some level of soreness each time you switch to a new set of aligners. Every new set is designed to move your teeth slightly further towards their desired position so the ongoing adjustments can cause discomfort.
However, many patients find that the soreness decreases over time as their mouths become accustomed to the feeling of the aligners. After the first few sets, your teeth and gums may adapt to the sensation of pressure, and the discomfort may become less noticeable.
How Long Will It Take For My Mouth To Get Used To Invisalign?
Most patients find that their mouths adjust to wearing Invisalign aligners within 2 to 3 weeks. Initially, you might notice that the aligners feel tight and uncomfortable. However, as your teeth begin to shift and you get used to wearing the aligners, the discomfort typically subsides.
It is also possible that you might experience increased saliva production and a slight lisp during the adjustment period. These side effects are usually temporary and should improve as your mouth increasingly gets used to the treatment.
It is important to wear your aligners for the recommended 20 to 22 hours per day to ensure that your teeth continue to move as planned and that your mouth adjusts quickly.
What If the Pain Persists For More Than A Week?
If the soreness persists for more than a week or becomes severe, it is essential to get in touch with your orthodontist immediately. The aligners might not fit correctly or there could be an issue with the way your teeth are moving. Your orthodontist may need to adjust the aligners or provide some advice on how to manage the discomfort.
While some level of discomfort is expected, severe pain is not typical and should not be ignored. It is always better to check with a professional if you have concerns about your Invisalign treatment to ensure that it is progressing as planned and to prevent any potential complications.
How Does Invisalign Discomfort Compare to Traditional Braces?
Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign is generally considered to be less painful. Traditional braces involve metal brackets and wires, which can cause sores and irritation inside the mouth. In contrast, Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic and are custom-fitted to your teeth, reducing the risk of abrasions and cuts.
A randomised control trial in 2021 showed that over 80% of patients who have experienced both traditional braces and Invisalign reported less discomfort with Invisalign.
The main discomfort with Invisalign comes from the pressure applied to the teeth, whereas traditional braces can cause additional pain from tightening and adjustments made by the orthodontist. This makes Invisalign a popular choice for those looking for a less painful orthodontic experience.
Get In Touch Today To Discuss Invisalign Treatment
The soreness from Invisalign typically lasts between 3 to 7 days after starting a new set of aligners, with the most discomfort occurring in the first couple of days. This soreness is a normal part of the process as your teeth adjust to the new aligners and begin shifting into place.
While some level of discomfort is expected, it is usually mild and manageable with simple remedies such as over-the-counter pain relief and cold compresses. If you are concerned about the pain or if it persists, get in touch so that our team can help to address any issues and ensure a smooth treatment process. You can be rest assured that with patience and proper care, the temporary soreness will lead to a straighter, healthier smile in the long term.