Is Discomfort Common with Invisalign Treatment?
One of the most popular options out there for improving the overall appearance of your smile is orthodontic care. By undergoing orthodontic treatment, the teeth are properly aligned along the dental arch, improving dental aesthetics and overall dental wellness in the process. One particular option that is growing in popularity is Invisalign, which uses clear plastic aligners to correct tooth alignment.
When you meet with a skilled cosmetic dentist, you'll be able to learn a lot more about Invisalign and how it can be of benefit to you. Right now we want to focus on the pain and discomfort of traditional orthodontics and how that relates to Invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
Let's cover the basics first. Invisalign is an orthodontic care system that uses clear plastic aligners to improve overall tooth alignment. These aligner trays are removable but are otherwise worn at all times save for when a patient is eating, drinking, or cleaning his or her teeth.
How does Invisalign work?
The Invisalign system involves a series of clear plastic aligners that are custom designed for gradual realignment of the teeth. Patients receive a new aligner every two weeks, which allows for changes in alignment to occur with a similar approach as traditional braces treatment.
Pain from Invisalign Treatment
Many patients ask us if Invisalign is painful, and in fact, the treatment can lead to some discomfort, especially in the early weeks of treatment. This is because your teeth are not used to the pressure being placed on them. Patients may note pain in the teeth or soreness of the teeth which is a result of the tension placed on them by the dental aligners.
This discomfort for Invisalign tends to be mild, however, though it's one of the risks we inform patients of when they come to our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center for a consultation. As treatment continues, the discomfort is less pronounced. Patients will be able to tolerate the discomfort without the need for pain medication.
Is Invisalign more comfortable than traditional braces?
In general, yes, Invisalign is more comfortable than traditional braces treatment. The gradual shift in dental alignment is much more gradual than that of traditional braces in most instances. In addition, there are no brackets and wires to deal with, which can irritate or cut the soft tissues inside of the mouth.
Since Invisalign trays are removable, there is a greater sense of comfort and ease for patients in this regard as well. Invisalign simply provides a more ideal patient experience in terms of comfort and aesthetics than traditional braces.
Alternatives to Invisalign
In some cases Invisalign will not be ideal for patients, particularly if they are facing more complicated orthodontic needs. In such instances, traditional orthodontic care would be a better option to consider.
If patients have only minor, aesthetic issues with tooth alignment, it is possible for these matters to be addressed with a porcelain veneer or a few porcelain veneers rather than orthodontic care. This cosmetic treatment can provide the results of orthodontic care in just a visit or two.
Learn More About Invisalign Treatment
For more information about Invisalign and how it can help you get the smile that you have always wanted, be sure to contact our Boston and Waltham dental care centers today. The entire team here looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you achieve the best possible dental health and wellness.