Invisalign is often recommended to address mild to moderate cosmetic and dental health concerns. It works by shifting teeth into ideal spaces, so some soreness or discomfort is to be expected, especially in the early days of treatment.
This discomfort is a normal part of the process, but there are several ways you can help alleviate the temporary soreness, including:
- Using a cold compress
- Rinsing with saltwater
- Eating softer foods
- Taking pain relievers
- Abide with the recommended 20-22 hours of wearing the aligners
Your dentist can provide personalized guidance to support your dental needs and comfort throughout the treatment process.
Does Invisalign Hurt?
Invisalign straightens teeth by applying gentle pressure over time. This same pressure can sometimes cause temporary discomfort, but it is a sign that your aligners are working as intended.
The soreness is usually most noticeable when starting treatment or switching to a new set of aligners—your teeth and gums need some time to adjust to the slight shifts in their alignment.
Remedies for Invisalign Soreness
Apply a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to your cheeks can relieve and reduce swelling in the gums. Wrap an ice pack in a clean towel and hold it against the sore side of your face for 10 to 15 minutes.
You can repeat this process throughout the day as needed.
Rinse with Saltwater
A warm salt water rinse can soothe sensitive gums, reduce gum irritation, and help mouth sores heal.
Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Swirl the mixture in your mouth for 30 seconds, focusing on the sore areas, then spit it out.
You can rinse with salt water up to 2 times a day. The salt water helps reduce inflammation, promote healing, and eliminate bacteria in the mouth. The warm water additionally provides a calming effect.
Eat Softer Foods
Since Invisalign is removable, treatment usually does not warrant dietary restrictions. However, as your teeth and gums adjust to the aligners, they may feel sore or tender.
Hard foods, like nuts, can be painful to chew on. If chewing exacerbates your discomfort, try to limit solid foods and stick to soft foods while you gradually get used to your new aligners.
Use Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen, Advil, and Motrin are not recommended. Inflammation is needed in order for the teeth to move. Use Tylenol only if needed.
Pain medications are generally effective for alleviating moderate soreness but should be used sparingly. Always take pain medications as directed on the label or by your dentist.
General Tips to Reduce Discomfort
Outside of home remedies for Invisalign soreness, staying committed to your treatment is crucial. Keeping your orthodontic journey on track can lead to a smoother, more effective process.
Maintain Your Oral Health
Plaque buildup, food particles, and debris trapped under your aligners can irritate your teeth and gums and worsen discomfort. Additionally, healthy teeth and gums are generally more resistant to soreness.
You should remove your Invisalign before every meal or snack. Before reinserting your aligners, thoroughly brush and floss your teeth. When possible, rinse with mouthwash or water to eliminate as much debris as possible.
Maintaining optimal oral hygiene helps reduce soreness and lower the risk of gum inflammation and cavities.
Make Sure Your Aligner Is Seated Properly
Invisalign clear aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth. When inserting your aligners, make sure you push them in completely and use the bite stick to ensure they are completely seated.
Aligners not seated properly may apply uneven pressure, cause unnecessary discomfort, and potentially slow your progress.
Wear Your Aligners for 22 Hours a Day
Consistency can prevent extended discomfort. Think of it this way—the more often you take the aligners out, the more your teeth have to readjust to the sensation of wearing your aligners. Taking your aligners out too frequently can prolong soreness and slow your progress.
Wear your aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, ideally as close to 22 hours as possible. This gives the aligners ample time to apply gentle force to shift your teeth, keeping your treatment on schedule. Additionally, this allows your teeth to adjust continuously and get accustomed to the new aligners.
Stick to Your Dentist’s Treatment Schedule
Each set of aligners is designed to gradually align your teeth. Delaying switching to the next set or prolonging your treatment schedule can lead to inefficiencies and even discomfort.
You must change your aligners every 1 to 2 weeks, depending on your dentist’s instructions. By evaluating your teeth alignment and oral health, your dentist can craft a suitable timeline to gradually and safely shift your teeth.
Schedule Your Follow-Up Appointments
Regular checkups monitor your progress, allowing your dentist to make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. You will receive your next set of aligners during your progress evaluations to continue your Invisalign journey.
These meetings are also your opportunity to discuss any discomfort you may feel. Your dentist can provide more detailed guidelines to support your dental needs without sacrificing comfort.
It’s important to note that Invisalign discomfort is usually minimal, with most people experiencing only mild pressure or soreness when switching to a new set of aligners. This temporary discomfort typically fades within a few days as the teeth adjust to their new position. However, everyone’s body responds differently. Talk to your dentist if you have any concerns.
Personalize Your Treatment Plan at Cooper Dental
Dr. Cooper is a Gold Invisalign Provider. She has helped many patients successfully straighten their teeth with Invisalign. For personalized advice about Invisalign treatments, contact our team at Cooper Dental today.
