Invisalign in Kansas City, MO is the newest way to get the straighter, healthier smile you’ve always wanted. Unlike traditional metal braces, these clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible, and designed to blend into your busy lifestyle. If getting straighter teeth without metal wires and brackets sounds too good to be true, you may be asking yourself “Does Invisalign hurt?” Here’s everything you can expect when undergoing this modern orthodontic treatment.
The Big Question: Does Invisalign Hurt?
In short, all methods for aligning teeth cause some level of pain, and Invisalign is no exception. To understand how Invisalign discomfort compares to that of traditional braces, a recent study from Texas A&M asked patients of each treatment to record when they felt pain as well as the amount. In the end, the study revealed that those with metal braces statistically recorded higher levels of pain than those who wore Invisalign aligners, for both the first days and the first month of treatment. However, it’s important to remember that Invisalign treatment isn’t completely pain-free.
What Part of Invisalign Treatment Causes Discomfort?
In contrast to traditional braces, Invisalign has no metal brackets or wires that painfully scratch away at the soft tissues in your mouth. However, the edge of your aligners may cause some gum irritation and soreness for the first few days. You’ll also notice some discomfort as the aligners press against your teeth. This uncomfortable sensation may be pronounced during the first few days, but will begin to wane as your teeth shift into place. You can expect some discomfort when transitioning to the next set of aligners, but it should be mild and fade quickly.
Tips for Combatting Dental Discomfort
In most cases, any discomfort caused by Invisalign aligners passes withing the first several days. However, if you need help relieving the pain or continue to feel uncomfortable, you can manage your discomfort by:
- Taking over-the-counter pain killers that ease inflammation as directed.
- Applying a cold compress or ice pack to numb your mouth and ease irritation.
- Drinking cold water or sucking on ice cubes to soothe light swelling.
- Switching to new aligners right before bed so you can sleep through any initial discomfort.
- Talking to your dentist about having any sharp edges smoothed out.
While Invisalign treatment may not be completely painless, the short-lived discomfort is well worth the results. As long as you continue to wear your aligners properly, you’ll be enjoying a happy, healthy, and straightened smile in no time!
About the Author
Dr. Michael C. Byars of Kansas City, MO firmly believes in staying current with the latest advancements in dentistry to provide his patients the efficient, comfortable, and optimal care they deserve. He routinely exceeds the number of continuing education hours required every year and is an active member in organizations like the American Dental Association and the Greater Kansas City Dental Society. As a result, he is proud to offer state-of-the-art dental treatments like Invisalign. If you would like to learn more about straightening your smile with Invisalign, he can be contacted via his website or at (816) 781-8222.