Do Clear Aligners Hurt? What to Expect During Treatment
28-05-2025
Clear aligners like Invisalign and Angel Aligners are an increasingly popular choice for patients looking to straighten their teeth discreetly. One of the most frequently asked questions we get at The Dental & Cosmetic Clinic in Leicester is: “Do clear aligners hurt?”
In this blog, we will discuss what to expect in terms of discomfort, how it compares to traditional braces, and what you can do to ensure your treatment is as comfortable as possible.
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Are Clear Aligners Painful?
In short, clear aligners shouldn’t cause pain. However, it’s normal to experience mild discomfort or pressure, especially during the first few days of each new aligner tray.
This pressure is a sign that the aligners are doing their job: gently moving your teeth into their desired positions. Most patients describe this sensation as tightness or tenderness rather than outright pain.
When Does the Discomfort Usually Happen?
You’re most likely to feel discomfort at the following times:
- When first starting treatment: Your teeth and gums are getting used to the
- Every time you change to a new set: Typically every 1–2 weeks, as each tray is designed to shift your teeth slightly further.
- Occasionally while removing or inserting trays: Especially if your teeth are tender from recent movement.
The good news? Most discomfort eases within 24–72 hours.
What Does It Feel Like?
The sensations vary from person to person, but common descriptions include:
- A dull ache or pressure on specific teeth
- Tenderness around the gums or jaw
- Slight irritation on the tongue or cheeks in the early days
If the trays are rubbing in an uncomfortable way, your dentist can gently smooth the edges or recommend relief wax.
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Tips to Manage Discomfort
At our Leicester clinic, we always provide tips to help patients adjust comfortably:
- Wear your aligners as much as possible: Full-time wear (20–22 hours a day) helps you get used to them quicker.
- Use over-the-counter pain relief: Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help ease initial tenderness.
- Switch to new trays at night: This allows you to sleep through the most intense period of adjustment.
- Stick to softer foods during the first few days: Soups, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and pasta are gentle on sore teeth.
- Use aligner chewies: These help seat the aligners properly, which can reduce soreness.
When Should I Be Concerned?
While mild discomfort is normal, get in touch with your dentist if:
- Pain lasts longer than a few days or worsens
- Aligners feel extremely tight or don’t fit properly
- You experience bleeding or severe mouth ulcers
We are always here to support you throughout your treatment, so you are welcome to contactus if you have any of the above symptoms.
Final Thoughts: A Little Pressure for Big Results
Clear aligners are a modern, effective, and low-discomfort alternative to traditional braces. While you may feel some pressure or tenderness during the adjustment period, it usually fades quickly, and the reward is a straighter smile. At The Dental & Cosmetic Clinic in Leicester, we offer Invisalign and Angel Aligners with expert support and personalised care.
Book a consultation today to see if clear aligners are right for you.
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