Beginning Invisalign treatment is the exciting start of a completely new, straight smile. But as with everything new, the first week can surprise us. One of the most frequent questions that people have is, “Is the first week of Invisalign painful?” The answer to which is that although you will feel pressure and discomfort, usually it is tolerable and an indication that your aligners are working hard.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to expect during your first week with Invisalign, tips to make it easier, and how to stay on track with your treatment.
The First Day: Getting Used to the Aligners
When you first put in your Invisalign trays, they might feel a little tight or awkward. This is completely normal. Invisalign works by applying gentle pressure to move your teeth into the right position. That pressure can feel strange at first, especially if you’ve never had braces or any other type of orthodontic treatment before.
You may also speak a little differently for the first day or two. Your tongue needs time to adjust to the trays. Most people return to normal speech quickly, usually within 48 hours.
Managing Discomfort and Soreness
The soreness from Invisalign is typically the worst during the first few days. Your teeth are starting to shift, and that movement can make them feel tender, especially when biting or chewing. The good news? The discomfort usually fades within the first week.
To help with soreness, you can:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen
- Eat soft foods like soup, yogurt, or mashed potatoes.
- Use cold compresses on your jaw if needed.
- Keep your aligners in as much as possible to help your mouth adjust faster.
Is Wearing Invisalign 20 Hours a Day Enough?
A common concern people have is, “Is wearing Invisalign 20 hours a day enough?” While 20 hours is the minimum recommendation, most dentists suggest wearing your aligners for 22 hours a day for the best results. That means you should only take them out to eat, drink anything other than water, and brush and floss your teeth.
Wearing them for less time could slow down your progress or even cause your teeth to move back. To stay on schedule, keep your aligners in as much as you can and follow your dentist’s instructions closely.
Eating and Drinking with Invisalign
One of the great things about Invisalign in Edmonton is that you can eat whatever you want—but only when the trays are out. Never eat or drink anything (except water) while wearing your aligners. Hot drinks can warp the plastic, and coloured drinks like coffee or soda can stain them.
Be sure to brush your teeth before putting your aligners back in after every meal or snack. If you don’t, you could trap food and bacteria inside, which can lead to cavities or bad breath.
Keeping Your Aligners Clean
Keeping your Invisalign trays clean is just as important as keeping your teeth clean. Dirty aligners can get cloudy or smelly, and they won’t be as “invisible” as they’re meant to be.
Here’s how to clean your aligners:
- Rinse them with lukewarm water every time you remove them
- Brush them gently with a soft toothbrush (no toothpaste—it can scratch)
- Use Invisalign cleaning crystals or soak them in a denture cleaner if needed.
Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic, and always store them in the case when you’re not wearing them.
Talking with Your Dentist
If something feels off, like your aligners don’t fit well, or you’re in more pain than expected, don’t hesitate to call your dentist. Invisalign treatment is meant to be as smooth and comfortable as possible, but adjustments may be needed from time to time.
A trusted dentist in Edmonton can help guide you through your Invisalign journey, answer your questions, and make sure everything is moving in the right direction.
Progress Takes Time—Be Patient and Stay Committed
Invisalign isn’t instant, and the first week can feel like a big change. But with time, wearing your aligners becomes part of your daily routine. Most people adjust quickly, and the small discomfort in the beginning is worth the amazing results at the end.
Take pictures of your progress, follow your treatment plan, and stay consistent. Remember, every little shift brings you one step closer to a better smile.
Ready to Start Your Invisalign Journey? Schedule Your Appointment Today!
Getting through the first week with Invisalign is a big milestone, and having the right support makes all the difference. If you’re thinking about clear aligners or want professional advice to keep your treatment on track, Albany Dental is here to help.
Book your appointment today and let our team guide you toward the smile you’ve always wanted!