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Starting Invisalign is exciting, but many patients want to know, “Does Invisalign hurt?” While the first few days with a new set of aligners can be a little uncomfortable, it’s usually a good sign. It just means your aligners are doing their job! Better yet, the discomfort will fade, and there are several ways to ease the ache and stay on track with your treatment.
Why Do New Invisalign Aligners Cause Soreness?
Every time you switch to a new set of Invisalign trays, they start applying gentle pressure to guide your teeth into their next position. That pressure can make your teeth and gums feel tender, especially during the first few days. The good news is that this soreness is often mild and usually improves over time as your mouth adjusts.
Tips to Ease Invisalign Ache
There’s no medal or merit badge for “toughing it out” when it comes to your orthodontic treatment. So, it’s best to do what you can to take the edge off the sensitivity. Here are some simple tips to help:
Switch to New Aligners at Night
Changing to your new aligners right before bed allows you to sleep through the first several hours of pressure when it’s often most noticeable. By the time you wake up, some of the initial discomfort will have already passed!
Try Cold Water and Soft Foods
Cold can be soothing for teeth, so sipping chilled water throughout the day can help calm sore areas and keep you hydrated. For the first day or two with a new set of trays, you can also choose softer foods like yogurt, scrambled eggs, or pasta. This reduces the amount of chewing pressure on already tender teeth.
Consider Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
If you’re feeling more than mild discomfort, generic pain relievers can help take the edge off soreness. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label and never exceed the maximum limit.
Wear Your Aligners as Directed
While it might seem counterintuitive, don’t take your Invisalign trays out to “give your teeth a rest.” Removing them too often can prolong discomfort and may affect your treatment timeline. Instead, be consistent in wearing your aligners for the recommended 20–22 hours a day. This helps your teeth adapt faster and keeps your treatment on schedule.
With a little patience and a few good strategies for comfort, you’ll soon become an Invisalign aficionado. By removing discomfort from the equation, your path to a straighter smile is free and clear.
About the Author
Dr. Francisca A. Sanchez has been transforming smiles for over 20 years. She first earned her dental degree in the Dominican Republic and later completed advanced training at Columbia University’s College of Dental Medicine and the University of Florida. She’s passionate about ensuring every patient is comfortable during care, whether it’s in the chair or while going through Invisalign treatment. Call (646) 669-7407 to schedule an Invisalign consultation at FS Dental Arts or visit our website to contact us.