When it comes to getting a straighter smile, Invisalign is a favorite option in
cosmetic dentistry!
One common question we’ve heard is,
“Does Invisalign... This text opens a new tab ... hurt?”
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through what to expect and how you can relieve any discomfort!
Check it out:
How does Invisalign work?
By applying gentle pressure, the aligners gradually shift your teeth into place.
Like with any sort of aligner, it will take some time for you to get used to wearing them.
Within the first few days of getting a new
Invisalign aligner, you’re bound to feel some discomfort. But that’s to be expected!
Most patients have said that the soreness or tenderness goes away within the first few days.
Luckily, there are ways to ease the discomfort.
How to ease Invisalign discomfort:
- Ice, ice baby! (Sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves.) Use an ice pack or cold compress on your cheeks to soothe the area and reduce inflammation.
- Over-the-counter medicines like Ibuprofen or Tylenol can be used as recommended to alleviate discomfort.
- Your doctor might give you Chewies to help your Invisalign fit better! These are small, soft plastic rolls to chew on. Using Chewies will eliminate airspace under your aligners, enabling your treatment to progress more efficiently.
- Wax may be given to you to layer over rough spots on your aligner. But if there’s a spot on your Invisalign that’s really bothering you, ask your dentist to soften it.
Does Invisalign hurt less than braces?
Invisalign is typically less painful than traditional metal braces.
Rather than sharp brackets and poking wires, you're given a smooth, plastic aligner that’ll fit snugly over your teeth.
How many hours a day should I wear Invisalign?
It's highly recommended that you wear Invisalign for 20-22 hours a day.
This will give you the best results!
That should also make them more comfortable to wear.
If you don’t wear Invisalign, your teeth won’t move as they’re supposed to.
The longer you go without wearing the aligners, the more likely your teeth will shift back to their original (crooked) position
And you know what that means?
A prolonged treatment time.
So:
Invisalign will likely cause a bit of discomfort when you first start wearing them.
But in time, your mouth will adjust to the aligners.
Looking for an Invisalign dentist in Raleigh, NC?
Our team loves to see the wonderful transformations patients have when they use Invisalign.
And we want you to feel comfortable and happy with your smile results.
That’s why we ways go the extra mile, here at
The Dental Market.
You’ll be in the capable hands of
Dr. James Sarant - your dentist in Raleigh, NC!
Book a consultation and let's discuss if Invisalign is right for you.
Our dental office is located in Raleigh, and gladly welcomes patients from our neighboring communities, including:
- Cary
- Wake Forest
- Garner
- Knightdale
- Durham
- Apex
- Holly Springs
