Invisalign braces are a popular alternative to traditional metal braces. They are invisible, and many people choose them because they don’t want to have a mouth full of metal for two years. But is it painful to have Invisalign? Do these braces hurt? We’ll take a look at the pain associated with having Invisalign, when you should expect to feel pain, and how to manage any discomfort you may experience.
What is pain?
Before we can dive into the pain associated with Invisalign braces, it’s important to understand what pain is. Generally, pain is a feeling that tells us something is wrong. It can be sharp or dull, and it can vary in intensity from mild to excruciating. Pain can be localized (meaning it’s restricted to one specific area) or it can be diffuse (felt all over).
Types of pain during Invisalign
There are different types of pain you may experience during your Invisalign treatment. You may feel some discomfort when the aligners rub against your teeth or the inside of your cheek. This is normal and usually goes away after a few days. You may also experience a slight toothache or jaw pain (especially if you have elastics!), but this should only last for a day or two. If the pain persists, consult your orthodontist immediately.
When is it normal to feel pain?
So when we talk about the pain of Invisalign. We will talk about the pain you should expect, and the pain you shouldn’t expect.
Expected Invisalign pain
Most people experience some pain when they first start wearing their Invisalign braces. This is because your teeth are starting to move and it’s normal for them to feel a bit sore. The good news is that this pain usually only lasts for a few days, and you will get the feeling the invisible braces are doing their work!
As your teeth continue to move, you will likely experience some additional pain. This pain will typically be mild to moderate, and it may last anywhere from a few hours to a day or three.
Discomfort wearing Invisalign
Most people who have Invisalign braces don’t experience any real, lasting pain. However, some people do report feeling discomfort while wearing the braces. This discomfort typically comes from having the aligners in for too short, or from having them fitted improperly.
Not everyone who has Invisalign braces experiences pain, but there are certain times when you should expect to feel some discomfort. Here are a few of them:
- First time – When you get your first aligner. This is the most uncomfortable stage of treatment, and you may experience pain for several weeks.
- When switching to a new aligner – When new aligners are inserted. You may feel pain for a day or two when your new aligners are put in.
Unexpected Invisalign pain that should concern you
There are certain types of pain that you should be concerned about. If you experience severe pain, or if the pain persists for more than five days, please contact your dentist or orthodontist. You may also want to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Tooth pain that is throbbing or radiating
- Fever
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Sudden swelling in your mouth
How to manage Invisalign pain
If you’re experiencing pain while wearing Invisalign braces, there are a few things that you can do to help manage the discomfort.
First, make sure that you’re following your orthodontist’s instructions carefully. If you’re not wearing your braces for the recommended amount of time each day, or if you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, the pain will likely be worse.
Additionally, over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen can help to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Finally, try to remain positive and stay motivated – after all, the end result is worth it! Invisalign is a great way to achieve a beautiful smile without having to suffer through any prolonged pain.
Conclusion – is Invisalign painful?
There is no one definitive answer to this question as everyone experiences pain differently. However, many people find that Invisalign does not cause them any more pain than traditional braces. In fact, many people find that the aligners are actually more comfortable to wear than metal braces. If you are experiencing pain during your Invisalign treatment, be sure to speak with your orthodontist so that they can help you find a solution.
If you are considering Invisalign, be sure to speak with your dentist about the potential pain associated with treatment. They can help you make an informed decision about whether or not Invisalign is right for you. Let us know in the comments if you have any pain associated with Invisalign!Invisalign: The Truth About the Pain