Are Invisalign® Aligners Uncomfortable at First?

Comfort and convenience are two important factors in choosing the right orthodontic treatment for yourself or your teen — and Invisalign clear aligners offer both. With Invisalign treatment, patients enjoy the comfort of custom-made trays rather than sharp brackets or poking wires while also having the ability to remove Invisalign aligners for short periods as needed. However, patients should have realistic expectations for their Invisalign treatment plan and understand that they may experience some mild discomfort — like pressure or aching — in the first day or two of wearing each new set of aligners.

Still, most people report that discomfort with Invisalign treatment is very minimal — while some experience none at all! Here, the friendly team at Fresh Dentistry, led by Cedar Hill, TX Invisalign provider and family dentist Dr. Candace Brown, shares helpful information on what to expect with Invisalign aligners.

Does Invisalign treatment hurt?

Invisalign aligners are not considered painful. In fact, one of the many benefits of Invisalign is that patients do not have to worry about getting cut, poked, stuck, or otherwise hurt by sharp metal brackets and wires. Instead, Invisalign trays are created from a smooth plastic material based on impressions of your mouth. This ensures the trays fit as comfortably as possible. However, it is important to note that you may experience some pressure or mild discomfort during the first couple of days of wearing a new set of trays as your mouth adjusts.

How long does it take to get used to Invisalign aligners?

For most patients, it takes just a couple of days — sometimes even just a few hours — to get used to the feeling of Invisalign aligners. One of the most common experiences reported by Invisalign patients is a feeling of pressure or aching in the teeth or jaw when first starting Invisalign treatment or when switching to a new set of Invisalign aligners. This is due to the fact that each set of aligners is made to be slightly straighter than your teeth currently are, which works to gradually shift your teeth into their new position.

Can I take my Invisalign out if they hurt?

It's important to wear your Invisalign aligners for the minimum required time each day, including while sleeping, which is about 20 – 22 hours total. If your teeth are sore from Invisalign aligners in the first day or two of a new set of aligners, do your best to avoid removing the aligners for an extended period of time. In most cases, this will help your teeth adjust to Invisalign treatment faster and avoid treatment delays. If recommended, over-the-counter pain relievers may be helpful during this time. Do not start, adjust, or stop any medications, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, or prescriptions, before consulting with your healthcare provider.

If you are experiencing ongoing, worsening, or severe pain — or if you have other symptoms accompanying your pain with Invisalign aligners — call our office to speak with one of our team members as soon as possible.

When can I take Invisalign out?

While it's important to keep your aligners in as much as possible, including while you get used to wearing Invisalign aligners, there are several occasions on which you can temporarily remove your trays for convenience and more. Some of the times you can take Invisalign trays out safely and appropriately include:

• To eat or drink
• To brush your teeth
• While playing sports or a musical instrument
• When having your picture taking
• During short social occasions

How long does Invisalign take for a full round of treatment?

While everyone's course of treatment will vary somewhat, most patients can expect their Invisalign treatment to take about one year to achieve an optimal outcome. Again, this is heavily dependent on how closely you adhere to your treatment instructions, including wearing your aligners for at least 20 – 22 hours per day.

Get a straighter smile the easier way with Invisalign aligners in Cedar Hill, TX

If you are one of the many adults or teens who wish they had straighter teeth but aren't interested in the downsides of traditional metal braces, you may be excited to find out that you could be a candidate for Invisalign treatment. For more information about who qualifies for Invisalign aligners, or if you are ready to schedule your consultation for Invisalign treatment in Cedar Hill, TX with Dr. Candace Brown, don't hesitate to call our friendly team at Fresh Dentistry today.