Discomfort During Invisalign: What to Know

Many patients have lots of questions or concerns before beginning orthodontic treatment. Like any other medical intervention, braces or Invisalign require changing your lifestyle, adopting new habits, and getting accustomed to a new part of your routine and changes to your mouth!
Luckily, orthodontic care is totally safe, comfortable, and very easy to adapt to. In this video, Diamond Braces dental hygienist Kimberly answers some of the most common questions about orthodontic treatment.
Q: Will my braces or Invisalign cause discomfort?
A: It is entirely normal to experience some discomfort when the braces are first put on your teeth, or when you receive a new set of Invisalign aligners. Think about your muscles after a new gym workout: they are sore because they are getting stronger! After consulting your doctor, you can take any over-the-counter pain medication to help with the discomfort, such as Advil or Tylenol.
Q: Will gaps appear between my teeth?
A: During treatment, as your teeth adjust into their correct alignment, some gaps may appear between your teeth. This is totally normal, and part of the process of your teeth aligning properly. The gaps will disappear again as they teeth move into position. Ask your doctor if you want to understand what is happening to your teeth!
Q: Will I feel discomfort in my lips or cheeks?
A: Sometimes, patients feel discomfort in their mouths as they adjust to braces or Invisalign. This is also entirely normal! Think about what happens when you buy a new pair of sneakers: they take a few days to break in, to feel comfortable on your feet. The same is true for orthodontic appliances: they take up room in your mouth, and your cheeks, lips, and gums may take a few days to "break them in". After just a few days, your braces are part of your smile and you will no longer feel discomfort.
Diamond Braces offers a special emergency hotline just for patients with questions about their braces or Invisalign. If you're not sure what's happening with your orthodontia, or something feels wrong, contact your doctor.
Text Diamond Braces' Emergency Hotline for Orthodontic Help:
TEXT (631) 517-0577
Orthodontic Emergencies: What to Know and What to Do:
diamondbraces.com/braces/orth...
Caring for Your Braces at Home:
diamondbraces.com/braces/cari...