Invisalign® has changed the way we think about orthodontic treatment by offering a discreet, comfortable, and effective alternative to traditional braces, and many wonder what happens after the Invisalign® process is over. This post-Invisalign® guide covers what to expect after Invisalign® and provides tips to make your results last a lifetime.
Does Invisalign® Hurt?
One of the best things about Invisalign® treatment is that it’s much more comfortable than traditional braces. However, there may be some minor discomfort during and after, like any orthodontic treatment.
- Mild Pressure: The Invisalign® aligners apply gentle pressure to your teeth, which can cause some tenderness, especially when you switch to a new set of trays.
- Soreness in Gums or Teeth: You may feel some tenderness in your gums, teeth, or jaw as your teeth move into place.
- Irritation on the Tongue or Cheeks: New aligners can cause temporary irritation as your mouth adjusts to the edges of the trays.
This mild discomfort is temporary and indicates that your Invisalign® treatment is working. Most patients describe wearing Invisalign® aligners as a much better experience than traditional metal braces.
When Does the Discomfort Go Away?
Any discomfort you experience from each new set of aligners should subside after the first few days. Here’s a rough timeline:
Days One to Three
The pressure is most noticeable during the first one to three days after inserting a new aligner as your teeth are adjusting to the new tray.
After Day Four
By the fourth day, most of the discomfort is gone because your teeth have become accustomed to the aligners, with each day getting easier until it’s time to switch to the next set.
Many patients find that knowing the temporary pressure is moving their teeth closer to their goal makes it easy to tolerate. For those who experience more discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help.
Invisalign® Timeline Post Procedure
Once your Invisalign® treatment is complete, you’ll enter the post-treatment phase, and it requires vigilant attention. You can expect this stage of treatment to involve:
Your Last Invisalign® Aligner
After you’ve worn the last aligner for the prescribed time, your dentist will remove any attachments. These small enamel-colored bumps are sometimes used in complex cases, and there is no pain associated with their removal.
You may choose to whiten your teeth with the last set of aligners. Ask your dentist if they can provide professional-strength whitening gel and at-home whitening instructions.
Retainer Fitting
To keep your teeth from shifting back to their pre-treatment positions, your dentist will fit you with a custom retainer. Retainers are worn full-time for the first few months after Invisalign® treatment is complete and then only at night. Your dentist will determine when you can stop wearing them for 24 hours.
Follow-Ups
Regular check-ups with your orthodontist are vital to ensure your teeth stay in place. After switching to overnight retainer use only, our dentist can check the stability of your alignment. If any shifting is found, you may need to wear the retainer during the day for a while longer.
At Home Oral Care
Your oral hygiene habits become even more important after Invisalign®. Brush, floss, and get regular dental cleanings to protect your teeth and gums and your investment in your smile.
What to Expect First Day After Invisalign®
The first day after your Invisalign® treatment is exciting, and you might experience the following:
Smooth Teeth
Without the aligners or attachments, your teeth will feel smooth and natural again, which can be an adjustment after wearing Invisalign® for months.
Retainer Adjustment
You may feel some mild pressure when placing the retainer, much like when you first started Invisalign®. This pressure will go away as your mouth adjusts to the retainer.
Boosted Confidence
One of the best parts of finishing Invisalign® is seeing your perfect smile. Enjoy the confidence that comes with your new look!
9 Invisalign® Discomfort Tips
While Invisalign® is comfortable most of the time, you may experience some soreness or irritation. Here are nine practical tips to minimize and manage the soreness during and after treatment:
- Switch Aligners at Night: When it’s time to start wearing a new set of aligners, make the change when you go to bed. This allows your teeth to start adjusting while you sleep so you don’t feel as much discomfort the following day.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help soothe mouth irritation and prevent dry mouth, which can make discomfort worse.
- Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to your jaw to reduce inflammation and numb the soreness, especially during the first few days of a new aligner.
- Soft Foods: Eat soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes when you’re feeling discomfort. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that can irritate sore teeth or gums.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If discomfort persists, take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or TYLENOL® to help with pain and inflammation.
- Use “Chewies” for Proper Fit: To minimize discomfort, chew on Invisalign® chewies to help your aligners fit snugly against your teeth.
- Try Orthodontic Wax for Irritation: Apply orthodontic wax to the edges of the trays to keep them from irritating your tongue or cheeks.
- Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping your teeth and gums clean will prevent additional irritation or infection, which can cause additional soreness. Brush and floss thoroughly but gently to maintain proper oral health.
- Bad Habits: Avoid habits that can damage your teeth, like nail biting, chewing on ice, or using your teeth as tools.
Long-Term Care After Invisalign®
While treatment with Invisalign® is easy, knowing what to expect will help you transition smoothly into the maintenance phase. Wearing your retainer and practicing a good oral hygiene routine will help you keep your Invisalign® results looking like new so you can enjoy your new, straighter smile for a lifetime.
Get VIP Invisalign® Treatment in Beverly Hills, CA
Dr. Kevin Sands provides some of Beverly Hills’ straightest and most beautiful smiles, many of which you may have seen on one or more red carpets. Our dentist offers advanced cosmetic dentistry, including Invisalign® in Beverly Hills, and can help you achieve your own Hollywood smile! Check out his before-and-after photos, then schedule your VIP consultation by calling 310.273.0111.