Invisalign was designed to be a more comfortable alternative to traditional braces. However, some pain and discomfort may occur, especially after you get a fresh set of aligners.
When does Invisalign pain stop? It depends on the patient and the type of pain. For the most part, Invisalign pain typically goes away within 48 hours. But in some cases, discomfort may last throughout treatment.
In this guide, we explain why Invisalign causes pain and give you tips to help relieve soreness.
Minor Invisalign Pain is Normal
If you notice pain or discomfort, it means that your aligners are working. Your teeth need a small amount of pressure to realign.
Most patients will experience tightness or tenderness during the first week of getting new aligners. However, the pain usually subsides within a few days.
Some patients may even experience sore jaw muscles. This is another occurrence that is common with new aligners.
Jaw pain with Invisalign is caused by clenching or grinding during the day or at night. However, once the jaw relaxes into the new position, the pain goes away.
How to Relieve Invisalign Pain
Pain from Invisalign is no fun, but the good news is that you can alleviate discomfort at home. Here are a few methods to bid farewell to aligner soreness:
Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain medications, like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help reduce tooth pain. It can also help decrease gum swelling and inflammation that may occur.
Cold Compress and Ice Cubes
Placing a cold compress on your jaw and cheeks helps to soothe sore teeth, jaw, and gums.
Also, sucking on ice cubes can help decrease discomfort, especially for those who feel pain after removing an aligner to eat or brush their teeth.
Switch to New Aligners at Night
Most people experience Invisalign when they switch to a new aligner. A way around this discomfort is to switch to a new aligner before bed. This helps your teeth adjust during sleep, so there will be less pain during the day.
Don’t Eat Crunchy or Hard Foods When Experiencing Pain
Eating hard food during times of soreness can cause even more discomfort. Avoid things like crunchy foods to give your gums and tissues time to heal during orthodontic treatment.
Use Orthodontic Wax
At the beginning of treatment, your gums and inner cheeks may become irritated from the edges of Invisalign aligners. However, you can remedy this orthodontic wax. It creates a barrier between your cheeks and the aligners.
If the methods mentioned above don’t give you relief from Invisalign pain, you may have to visit your orthodontist.
The professionals at I Song Orthodontics are here to answer your concerns about Invisalign discomfort. Feel free to give us a call at 510-528-2220 or schedule a visit.
Read More:
