Many patients who choose Invisalign for their invisible orthodontics in Palma de Mallorca are surprised to discover that, despite being a comfortable and aesthetic treatment, it can also cause some discomfort at the beginning. It is normal to feel some pressure or pain during the first few days, as this is a sign that the teeth are starting to move and the treatment is working.
If you need professional advice, your dentist in Palma de Mallorca will accompany you throughout the process to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
How many days does Invisalign hurt?
Wearing Invisalign generates slight pressure or discomfort mainly during the first 2 to 3 days after inserting a new aligner. As specialists in Invisalign orthodontics in Palma de Mallorca, we can tell you that this sensation is completely normal, as it indicates that the teeth are moving correctly. Usually, it disappears in less than a week. With the following aligner changes, discomfort typically lasts between 1 and 2 days, being much milder and more tolerable.
Complete adaptation to Invisalign orthodontic treatment usually takes between 2 and 7 days, with a considerably lower level of discomfort than traditional braces. We can confirm this point since we perform all kinds of orthodontics in Palma de Mallorca, and our experience shows that in most cases, patients do not experience intense or constant pain.
How to relieve pain during the first days with Invisalign
There are several measures that help reduce discomfort during the initial adaptation:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol, always following the specialist’s recommendation. Frequent use of anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen is discouraged as they could interfere with tooth movement.
- Switch to new aligners at night so that most of the pressure is felt while you sleep.
- Drink cold water or suck on ice cubes to reduce inflammation and sensitivity.
- Eat soft and cold foods during the first days.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene and clean the aligners thoroughly with a soft toothbrush and rinses.
- Consult your orthodontist if the aligner edges cause irritation so they can smooth them.
Cold compress application techniques
Using localized cold is a very useful resource to relieve discomfort during the first days. To apply it safely:
- Always place a cloth or towel between the skin and the compress to avoid burns.
- Apply cold for 15 to 20 minutes per session, leaving breaks of 1 to 2 hours.
- You can use a bag of frozen peas or a mix of alcohol and water in a bag, which stays flexible without freezing solid.
- Check the skin before and after application to rule out irritation.
Safe doses of common pain relievers
In cases of mild or moderate discomfort, the safest pain relievers are:
- Paracetamol: 500 mg to 1 g every 6–8 hours, not exceeding 4 g per day. It is the most recommended option in orthodontics, as it does not interfere with tooth movement.
- Ibuprofen: 200 to 400 mg every 4–6 hours, with a maximum of 2400 mg per day. Although effective against pain, it is recommended to limit its use as it may reduce the inflammation needed for treatment progress.
In any case, it is essential not to self-medicate and always consult a dentist in Palma de Mallorca if you are on the island or anywhere nearby before taking any medication. If necessary, do not hesitate to contact an emergency dentist. If the pain persists or becomes intense, the best option is to go to the clinic for the necessary adjustments.
