Invisalign® is one of your best options to straighten crooked teeth and enhance the health and appearance of your smile. Invisalign® is an invisible orthodontic alternative to traditional braces, using clear plastic aligner trays rather than brackets and wires like traditional braces. Dr. Christine Hopkins has helped countless teens and adults in the Plano, TX area have healthier smiles thanks to Invisalign.

Many people contact Advanced Dental Center asking about discomfort during Invisalign treatment. Let’s cover some of the basics about pain during Invisalign treatment, and then offer some helpful patient tips to manage and reduce soreness.

Is Invisalign Uncomfortable?

A little bit, but the discomfort is mild and quite manageable.

Like any orthodontic treatment, pressure applied to the teeth will lead to some amount of discomfort. That is to be expected. But patients will get used to the discomfort and can overcome it easily.

How Long Does the Discomfort Last?

Generally the discomfort lasts a few days every time a new aligner is put in. Your teeth become a bit sore because they are adjusting to the presence of the new aligner tray. Patients will notice improvements in discomfort from day to day as they get used to the new aligner tray.

Wear New Aligners as Much as Possible

The first tip from our Plano dental center is to wear your Invisalign aligners as much as possible. By keeping the tray in for a long period, you’re able to get through the initial phase of discomfort sooner. Allow your teeth to become accustomed to the new tray.

Put in New Aligners Before Bed

Another good tip is to switch to a new aligner at night before bed. You’ll be able to sleep through the initial phase of discomfort from a new tray, and you’ll have the aligner in for several hours without interruption as well.

Eat Soft Foods After Putting New Aligners On

Since your teeth may feel sensitive and tender after a new aligner is put in, it’s a good idea to eat soft foods in those initial days with a new aligner. Soft foods put less pressure on your teeth, and won’t make it uncomfortable to chew.

Use Cold Compresses

Applying a cold compress to your face can actually work wonders for discomfort. Be sure to leave the compress on for about 15 minutes, take it off for 15 minutes, and repeat the pattern as needed.

An Ice Cube Might Help

If your teeth are feeling extra sore, you could consider sucking on an ice cube with your trays off to help numb the discomfort away. Be sure to just suck on the ice cube. Avoid biting down on it.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

If you need to, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers to address the soreness from a new aligner tray. We recommend trying the other tips above before using pain relievers, however.

Attend All Follow-Up Visits

There will be several follow-up visits at our Plano practice to make sure the Invisalign treatment is going as planned. Attend all of these follow-up visits, and do not hesitate to contact us between visits if any issues arise.

Learn More About Invisalign

To learn more about Invisalign and if it’s a good option for you, be sure to contact a skilled cosmetic and restorative dentist/prosthodontist. The team at Advanced Dental Center is here to help. You can reach us by phone at (972) 597-0471.