Invisalign has a well-earned reputation as one of the most comfortable, discreet ways to straighten teeth. But like any dental treatment, it isn’t entirely without risk. Before you panic, most complications are mild and manageable, but it’s worth knowing what to watch for before you start. Keep reading to see the most common issues Invisalign wearers face.
Tooth and Gum Discomfort
Teeth don’t just move. They’re embedded in your jawbone and attached with ligaments that keep them securely in place. Invisalign works by gradually shifting your teeth, which breaks down the bone where the shift is happening and heals it where the tooth comes from.
In other rare cases, the trays themselves can rub against your gums and cause sores—usually when the aligners don’t fit correctly. These issues can cause some soreness, but for most patients it’s mild enough to be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. If irritation persists beyond a few days, it’s worth seeing your dentist.
Tooth Movement Complications
Occasionally, teeth don’t move exactly as planned, which is sometimes known as “unpredictable tracking.” This can cause your aligners to stop fitting well partway through treatment. When it happens, a dentist may need to take new impressions and create a new set of aligners to get things back on track. So, while inconvenient, this is a very fixable issue.
Weight Loss
Because Invisalign requires specific wear time every day, some patients find that they don’t eat as much during treatment. For some, this can be a happy coincidence; for others, it could cause nutritional concerns. Before you put in your first aligner, it’s important to make sure you take meal times into consideration, so you can maintain a balanced diet.
Increased Cavity Risk
Invisalign trays need to be removed before eating and cleaned regularly. But if you skip this step by eating with your trays in or not brushing or soaking them, it can create an environment where bacteria thrive. When sugar and other food particles get trapped against your teeth for hours at a time, it allows the acid the bacteria produce to wear down your enamel.
Most Invisalign complications are minor and easy to manage with regular check-ins and good compliance habits. If you’re worried about what could happen to your smile during your orthodontic treatment, talk to your dentist. A good consultation before starting is the perfect way to identify any risks and work past them.
About the Author
Dr. Priya Chougule is a talented dentist with a doctorate from the University of Connecticut. With a passion for learning, she underwent an Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency and studied at the renowned Kois Center. Today, she’s a certified Invisalign provider with over 15 years of experience. Call (803) 548-3342 to schedule your consultation at Southlake Family Dentistry today.