Clear aligners are generally considered a comfortable orthodontic treatment.

Clear aligners are often an excellent choice for those who would like to resolve an orthodontic issue, but would prefer a more discreet alternative to traditional braces. Clear aligners are made from medical-grade plastic, and are customised for optimal results. But what do they actually feel like? And can you expect any discomfort from the treatment? Read on to find out more about the process, and if it’s suitable for you…

Does the treatment hurt?

Although Invisalign is generally considered a very comfortable treatment, it is important to note that you might experience some mild discomfort when your aligners are first fitted. The good news is that this pain is usually temporary, and should resolve within the first week or so of treatment.

You may also feel some mild discomfort when you change your aligners. This should also subside within a few days as you adjust to your new set of aligners.

How long will you feel discomfort?

Although each patient is different, you can expect to feel some discomfort for at least two or three days after you have had new clear aligners installed.

You will need to change to a new set of aligners every two weeks or so, so it is possible that you will experience some pain for the first few days of each new cycle. As you adjust to the feeling of wearing Invisalign, you should experience less painful side-effects each time that you replace your aligners.

How can you manage pain? 

Any pain caused by Invisalign should be temporary, but if you are really struggling, there are a few ways in which you can reduce your discomfort. Your orthodontist may recommend that you take over-the-counter medications to alleviate your pain when it is at its most severe.

You may also find it helpful to apply dental wax to the top edges of your aligners. By lubricating the rough edges, it is possible to reduce some of the friction that is causing you pain.

If you notice that you feel pain in just one tooth, try to avoid eating on that side of your mouth until the discomfort begins to subside. Placing pressure on the affected tooth by chewing and biting could exacerbate any soreness that you feel.

It is also advisable that you keep your trays in for at least 22 hours every day. This will help you to adjust to the feeling of your new aligners and ensure that you become tolerant to the pressure that they exert on your teeth.

Are clear aligners more comfortable than braces?

Although modern braces are much more comfortable than they used to be, Invisalign is generally considered one of the most comfortable orthodontic solutions. The clear aligners are made from plastic, which is customised to fit comfortably and does not involve the use of metal brackets and wires. Advancements in the field of orthodontics have made most treatments relatively comfortable, and your orthodontist will let you know how to reduce any pain that you feel, regardless of the option that you choose.   

How can we help?

At Straight Orthodontics, we offer a range of orthodontic solutions, including Invisalign. If you would like to straighten your teeth but are looking for a discreet alternative to traditional metal braces, you might consider clear aligners.

Clear aligners are often a suitable treatment for minor to mild cases of crowding, spacing, crossbites, open bites, underbites and over bites. If you would like to find out more about the process and its benefits, please have a look here.  

We also offer Teen Invisalign, which has been designed specifically for patients who are still growing. The treatment also includes a blue dot compliance indicator, which indicates when it is time to change to the next sequential tray. To find out more about Teen Invisalign, please have a look here.

To book an appointment, please contact us here or give us a call on 03 9585 8000. Our team will guide you through the treatment process and provide you with all the information that you need about living with Invisalign.